Better is a dinner where love is, than a fatted ox with hatred in it. Prov. 15:17.In the book Souls in the Hands of a Tender God, Craig Rennebohm lists "offering hospitality" as one of the four key components of companionship. Companionship comes from the Latin cum panis, with bread. "Sharing even the most humble meal,"says Rennebohn (p. 72), can be a sacred act. In all known cultures, enjoying food and refreshment is an expression of kindness and friendship, a sign of grace and true welcome. "
Another definition relevant of the practice of hospitality is what Henri J. M. Nouwen in his book Reaching Out calls "free and friendly space for the stranger." To practice companionship we try to create a space that is sacred, a place where we are free to accept one another for what we are, what we seek, what we believe, and what concerns us. This space needs to be safe and free of judgment.
A Prayer for Welcome: by Richard Gilbert
We bid you welcome, who come with weary spirit seeking rest,
Who come with troubles that are too much for you,
Who come hurt and afraid.
We bid you welcome, who come with hope in your heart,
Who come with anticipation in your step,
Who come proud and joyous.
We bid you welcome, who come seeking a new faith,
Who come to probe and explore,
Who come to learn.
We bid you welcome who come to this hall as a homecoming,
Who have found here room for your spirit,
Who find in this people a family.
Whoever you are, whatever you are, wherever you are on your journey,
We bid you welcome.
(found on the Unitarian Universalists of Puerto Rico web site (http://www.uupuertorico.org/)
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