Pastor Deanna or anyone , when are you going to write a book on hospitality or have you done so already? If so, Please airlift me a copy! haha
The problem is , having people in my home in a great number scares the wits out of me because I feel so inadequate. I know that this area just oozes from your pores like breathing air and that you love it. Can you teach me how to overcome my fear and learn to enjoy it without breaking out in hives. I know I need to grow in this area because it would enhance our ministry so greatly. I am willing to learn and stretch but I don't know how to get started . Should I start with the deacons or the youth or the staff . Should it be simple like a cookout or should it be elaborate with cloth napkins?
I would appreciate any advice someone is willing to give
Here is my advice of the day - Start where you are comfortable... If you are not comfortable hosting at your home - host an event at the church fellowship hall. You can do the planning or you can get a committee and you serve as chief hostess...
If you feel compelled to have something at the house - start small - an intimate setting... you don't have to have cloth napkins - my first household event was a pizza party complete with paper plates and canned drinks...
BE YOURSELF! The whole point of bringing them into your home is for them to get to know you... Not the person you think they want you to be!
Flow is exactly right. BE YOURSELF. Minister through hospitality in the way that suits your personality. The people really just want to get to know you...they are going to be just delighted that you have invited them over!!!
I enjoy both formal and casual entertaining. I'm always up for a last minute pizza party, and I like to plan dinners and open houses with more elaborate themes. But that's just ME! Don't stress yourself out!!! The important thing is, be you and ENJOY having the people in your home.