Reflection: All Are Welcome

"Jesus said to his disciples, 'Occasions for stumbling are bound to come, but woe to anyone by whom they come! It would be better for you if a millstone were hung around your neck and you were thrown into the sea than for you to cause one of these little ones to stumble." Luke 17 v1-2

Jesus (probably exaggerating to make his words more memorable!) reminds his followers that we should be careful to help others, not to hinder them. How do we make sure our churches are welcoming?

Not everyone will appreciate a hug or even a handshake- do we ask before we touch? Do we feel offended if people reject a hug? What boundaries or policies do we have in place to make sure people know they are safe and we are trustworthy? For example, displaying our safeguarding policies and details to contact if anyone has concerns.