Hospitality defined: (first definition) friendly and generous behavior towards visitors and guests, intended to make them feel welcome. (www.macmillandictionary.com)
This summer is so crucial to the relationship St. Stephen shares with the surrounding community. We are on display for families through Vacation Bible School and Afternoon Camp in June, at the newly created opportunity- Camp Gilmont at St. Stephen Day Camp in July, and at Augusts’ Music Day Camp. Also in July, the Youth prepare for their trip to Chicago’s Southside, as we represent a Texas hospitality as we work among varied denominations and ethnicities in our proclamation to the world.
The St. Stephen Church community is opening loving arms to many families to provide what they need during the summer …loving, safe, and affordable options for their children during the day time. St. Stephen is a crucial link for parents because we have built up an identity of a fun and caring Christianity in a welcoming environment.
At the time of Pentecost, the Holy Spirit was present in the disciples as they shared with ethnically diverse Jerusalem the joys of knowing Jesus Christ and the wonders of the newly created Christian Church.
“For the promise is for you, for your children, and for all who are far away, everyone whom the Lord our God calls to him…Awe came upon everyone, because many wonders and signs were being done by the apostles. All who believed were together and had all things in common; they would sell their possessions and goods and distribute the proceeds to all as any had need. Day by day, as they spent much time together in the temple, they broke bread at home and ate their food with glad and generous hearts, praising God and having the goodwill of all the people. And day by day the Lord added to their number those who were being saved.” Acts 2: 39, 43 – 47.”
As we reflect upon our experiences at Pentecost, it is time to consider getting involved in that hospitality on display on the lawn and in the buildings of St. Stephen.
Volunteers are needed, even if for a day, at Vacation Bible School, June 20 – 24. The atmosphere is contagious and the children energized as they crawl around every nook of the church as we share OUR gospel, our good news!
Homes could be opened for the Camp Staff of Camp Gilmont, July 10 – 14th, as we house counselors in sets of twos or threes, so that they can live amongst our people and minister to the children of the community at the newly organized Camp Gilmont at St. Stephen Day Camp. Seventeen on Staff, so we need 5 or 6 homes opened for the week.
Male Sponsors for the Mission Trip are needed. We are tasked with the job of assisting Living Hope Presbyterian Church’s dream of turning a early 20th century store front and former pool hall into worship space. We are some of first crews to assist with this process. We need carpenters and their knowledge in Chicago, July 16 – 24. Can you help?
Volunteers are needed, even for a day, for Music Camp, August 1 – 5, teaching arts and crafts, recreation, or cooking, while kids are learning a musical about Mary, Martha and Lazarus.
Can you arise to the call for Southern Summer St. Stephen Hospitality? Many hopefully will hear and respond!