June 18, 2025

How are you loving one another with radical generous hospitality in this warm weather season? Might you offer lemonade or ice water available outside your church? Place out A water bowl for those walking their dog. Host a garden party.  Host a popsicle, slushie or freezie treat event. Host an ice cream social.  Set up a bench or a table placed near sidewalk, roadside, under a shade tree to offer a resting place for hot passers-by. If your building is staffed, could the building be opened for visitors, with invitation to the wider community for neighbours to drop in, especially if you have air conditioning? Are there special events that could be offered this summer such as BBQ, community dinners, movie nights in sanctuary, board game nights, card parties?  Could your signs invite people in for free coffee, or even washroom availability? Are there community partners you could work with to be a rest stop for walking groups, cyclists or those on pilgrimages or neighbours out on a stroll? Are there events usually held inside that could be more visible and hosted outside? Minister’s office hours, a book study, Bible study or coffee and conversation group? It might be a good season to explore a tiny pantry, tiny library or other offering. Perhaps a sharing table might be offered for fresh produce from gardens. Perhaps host beat the heat opportunities to bring a small group together to cook a meal in the church kitchen, sharing foods and not heating your own home up. Share other ideas with me.