Pastor Lucas appointed me over the God Fist Church Hospitality Ministry three years ago. At which time I had neither idea what the appointment meant nor what it required. However, I was excited! Excited to see where the Lord was trying to take me on my walk with him as well as excited to be an official part of a GFC ministry. I immediately prayed and asked God for guidance. He then led me to think about the experience I would want as a visitor to a new church. I researched the Word and was led to a couple scriptures defining the meaning of hospitality.

Romans 12:13 says “Share with God’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality”
Romans 15:7 says “Welcome one another, then, just as Christ welcomed you, in order to bring praise to God.

The purpose of the God First Church Hospitality Ministry is to create an atmosphere of love, fellowship, and excitement for everyone who enters the church through a friendly welcome, knowledgeable information about the church and help for those who need it.
GFC’s Hospitality ministry makes a conscious effort to greet every person who enters GFC’s doors regardless if you’re a first time visitor, repeat visitor, or member. It’s important to recognize that you can never make a second first impression. In addition to greeting on Sundays and during other church events, we provide a quarterly celebration for newly joined members and those celebrating birthdays. This is also an opportunity for those visiting with us on those days to join in and learn more information about GFC.

Unfortunately, Hospitality in the world today is a lost art. Today’s culture does not support a hospitable environment. However, you should feel welcomed and loved when you enter God’s house. GFC should be the most hospitable place you enter in North County.

“The most important virtue any church can embody is the virtue of hospitality.” Stephen Rhodes
• Hospitality was a virtue in the early church.
• It was unthinkable to let a stranger pass by in those days.
• At the core of hospitality is openness
• Hospitality is extending grace to a stranger.

Hospitality is not customer service. Customer service is limited by company policy. Hospitality is unlimited by God’s grace. “Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling.” 1 Peter 4:9


“Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by doing that some have entertained angels without knowing it.” Hebrews 13:2.

Hospitality is love for the stranger. Hospitality is a lens we are to serve every single person who walks through the doors of our homes and church.

“For I (Jesus) was hungry and you gave me nothing to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me nothing to drink, I was a stranger and you did not invite me in, I needed clothes and you did not clothe me, I was sick and in prison and you did not look after me.” Matthew 25:42-43

I am humbled by the opportunity to serve as the ministry lead of hospitality. I thank the Lord for giving Pastor Lucas the insight to select me. I pray that I have been a blessing to those who have come through the doors of GFC. I know this experience has been a tremendous blessing to me. It has allowed me the opportunity to be a connecting point as people get to know the Lord here at God First Church. The GFC Hospitality Ministry is always looking for new members who want to extend the love of the Lord to strangers who can in turn become friends!