Hospitality is…

As people of faith, hospitality is what we are called to extend, called to receive, and called to enjoy. Whether the people you break bread with are from half way across the planet or the opposite end of the political spectrum - family, friend, or stranger - through the gift of hospitality you may be, as the book of Hebrews says, "entertaining angels without knowing it."

 

At this weekend's Bega Kwa Bega Fall Festival, hospitality [ukarimu in Kiswahili] will take center stage. As we shared last week, we have the privilege of hosting three guests from the Iringa Diocese who have traveled specifically to be with us for this annual celebration. Having traveled across the ocean and around the Saint Paul Area Synod, they will have much to share.

 

In addition to their presence, a series of workshops and presentations have been arranged to strengthen and enhance the hospitable work that we do together. Here is a foretaste of what is to come:

 

 

'BKB 101' - I'll be offering a brief introduction to the Bega Kwa Bega companion synod relationship and my perspective on what lies ahead.

 

 

'Toilets are the Tip of the Iceberg' - Pastors Horacio Castillo and Amanda Olson de Castillo will share tips for culturally sensitive travel.

 

 

'The Ins and Outs of Hosting Guests from Iringa' - Dan and Sue McIntyre from Lutheran Church of Peace will provide resources and advice for hosting guests from your companion congregation.

 

 

'What's New at Ilula' - Dr. Ken Olson from our BKB Medical Affiliate will give an update on the new nursing school and other health care initiatives across the Iringa Diocese.

 

 

'Tuning in to Radio Furaha' - Noel Petit from our BKB Radio Affiliate will share news about this outreach ministry of the Iringa Diocese and ways in which you can tune in to help out.

 

 

Children's Activity Center - Shepherd of the Valley in Apple Valley will recreate activities and ideas that they have used to engage their youngest members in God's Mission.

 

 

Affiliate Tables and Displays - Representatives from a whole host of BKB Affiliated organizations will be on hand to share about the work that they do and invite your participation.

 

 

Finally, the day will be surrounded in worship. We'll begin by reflecting on the watery welcome of our Baptism and finish standing by standing shoulder to shoulder around the Lord's Table. In all that we do we will be embraced by the goodness of God's Love and Grace.

 

 

It promises to be a wonderful morning and we look forward to seeing you there.

 

- peter