In a reflective homily, Father Jim draws inspiration from his old parish priest, Father Bill Meum, who consistently emphasized the message of God's love and the importance of radiating kindness. Father Jim adopts this recurring theme, highlighting the significance of repetition until such fundamental truths are deeply internalized by the congregation. He connects this message to the approaching Christmas season, a prime opportunity for evangelization not through outward outreach but by welcoming those who come to church during this time.
Father Jim emphasizes that Christmas, when many occasional churchgoers visit the church, provides an exceptional opportunity to extend a warm welcome and show the true face of Christ’s hospitality. He passionately argues that personal interactions by parishioners can make a significant impact, more so than any sermon. By engaging with and embracing newcomers and returning members of the community, parishioners can play a crucial role in making them feel part of the church family.
The homily discusses the biblical example of hospitality shown by Elizabeth to Mary, contrasting it with the lack of room at the inn for Mary and Joseph, showcasing two approaches to receiving guests. Father Jim uses this narrative to encourage his congregation to adopt an Elizabethan attitude of joy and openness, which recognizes and welcomes the Christ within each visitor. This approach, he suggests, can transform the church into a place of true community and belonging.
Father Jim concludes with practical advice for the congregation on how to embody this spirit of hospitality during the Christmas season. He urges them to consider small acts of kindness, such as choosing less convenient parking spots or greeting strangers warmly, to make church a welcoming space for all. This, he believes, is the essence of living out one's faith: seeing and treating each person as a manifestation of Christ, thus inviting them into a deeper relationship with the church and with God.
