Welcoming Ministry

I recently joined the Welcoming Ministry at my parish.

Every 3rd weekend of the month, volunteers (such as me) stay after Mass and welcome those interested in becoming part of our parish. Since we like the vigil Saturday Mass, that is when I volunteer.

Yesterday was the second time I did this. I left Mass after communion and set up the materials, taped up the Welcome Parishioners Ministry sign on the wall next to the entrance to the Lady Chapel and stood, hands folded, smiling waiting for people to come in.

I tried to smile and look 'welcoming' and not like a fake smile was plastered on my face. :D

As I stood there, people began to pass by, taking bulletins and heading for the car. I saw my sons, waved wildly and they gave me an (oh Mom!) look and kept going.

Soon a lovely lady walked up and we began to chat. She is considering joining us since her only son left for college. They had been going to a far away parish with where a priest friend was instructing her son for Confirmation. Now that he is away, she wants a closer parish. We talked about her son's departure. I could see the pain she still felt. She missed him, her only child. I hope she joins.

I also enjoyed talking with the other volunteer. I have seen her face for years, but never met her. We chatted and I found out she is retired, has been for 10 years. One month after her retirement, her husband passed away.

"We had all the plans for our retirement,' she said, " and then he was gone."

We talked of her kids and grand kids and her involvement in the Church and parish.
She had heard it said that our parish was 'cold and unwelcoming'. She disagrees and to help change that perception, joined the welcoming committee.

I made two new friends yesterday.