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We begin worship services with a word of greeting, a welcome ritual that gathers everyone in the “name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.” Jesus’ loving embrace is bigger than we can imagine! Part of following Jesus, then, means we practice “stretching our welcome” in our church, neighborhoods, communities, and the world. Use the resources provided to cultivate your own welcoming spirit.
Parents, use your own discretion when it comes to your kids. If content is rated for certain ages then we will indicate that. Enjoy!
Share: What were your high and low points today?
Read: Matthew 10:40: [Jesus said] “Whoever welcomes you welcomes me, and whoever welcomes me welcomes the one who sent me.”
Reflect: Share a story about a time when you felt welcomed. Share a story about a time when you did not feel welcomed.
Pray: “Dear God, help us to remember how it feels to be welcomed, and to welcome others at home, in school, at church, and wherever we go. Amen.”
Bless: Trace a cross on each other’s shoulder, hand, or head and say “[Name], you are a beloved child of God.”
For more conversation starters, try Daring Deep Discussions.
For more Bible texts, go to Suggested Scripture Readings.
Here’s a video introduction to “Welcome” and 2023-2024 Tiny Try-It-Outs, from the September 16-17 Good News For Kids.
Watch the joyful greeting SOTV travelers received from our Maasai partners in Tanzania.
This “jumping dance” is a traditional ritual of welcome and hospitality.
Enjoy the SOTV Worship Band’s cover of Kristian Stanfill’s “Glorious Day.”
How does it feel to know God calls your name, too?
Affiliated with the ELCA and Saint Paul Area Synod
