Someone recently told me how impressed they were by the number of new people they had met at our church. We ended up talking about how wonderful it is that our long-time members are always on the lookout for newcomers, ready to offer a friendly greeting and a sense of belonging.

Often, by the time a service ends, someone from the congregation has introduced me to the newcomers and shared a little about their story—how they found their way to our church that morning and what brought them here. I’m reminded of a couple who visited from another congregation and said that Westdale was the most welcoming church they had ever been to. And we’ve also heard from newer members who say that from the moment they stepped through the door, they knew this was a safe space for them.

The scriptures speak often about hospitality. 1 Peter 4:9 says, “Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling,” and Hebrews 13:2 reminds us, “Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it.”

At Westdale, our hospitality goes beyond friendliness. We are becoming a space for people who may have felt rejected by churches or Christianity for any number of reasons. Sometimes, simply noticing someone new and offering your presence can provide a moment of safety, inclusion, and even healing—a gift many are longing for but may not have experienced before.

We have official greeters who wear neon lanyards (and if you’d like to volunteer, let me know—we can always use more!), but hospitality is something we can all offer. Here are some ways we can help newcomers feel at home:

• Say hello and introduce yourself: A friendly greeting goes a long way.
• Help them get a nametag: Available at the welcome table.
• Encourage them to fill out a visitor information form: This helps us follow up and stay connected.
• Offer a free copy of Broadview magazine: Also at the welcome table, it’s a way to share a bit about the wider church.
• Invite them to stay for coffee after the service: Sit with them, introduce them to others, and have a friendly conversation.

Every small gesture matters. Every conversation, every smile, every invitation shows God’s love in action. When we welcome someone well, we’re not just being polite—we’re showing them what it means to belong here.

In addition to our greeters, some of us have talked about the idea of “church buddies.” Attending a new church can be intimidating—especially for those who didn’t grow up in Protestant traditions or who left other congregations. A church buddy can meet with a newcomer ahead of time to explain what to expect, walk with them into worship, and help them feel at ease. I’ve already seen congregants informally doing this, attending events or small groups with new folks so they aren’t walking in alone. It doesn’t have to be official—just keep it in mind when you meet someone who might benefit from a friendly companion.

Thank you for all the ways you make Westdale United a place where everyone feels seen, valued, and loved. Let’s keep that spirit alive every Sunday—and every time someone new walks through our doors.