July 10, 2012

Hospitality

In my life dictionary of important words the word "hospitality" (hospitalidad) means that I should respect everyone at all times. It means that I should shake hands, say hello, and ask the very important question, "Hola! Bienvenido! Como ha estado?"(Hello! Welcome! How have you been?)

Yesterday on my way to the General Convention of the Episcopal Church in Indianapolis, Indiana, my heart was racing as I rushed to catch a connecting flight out of Atlanta to Indianapolis. I worried about being on time and finding my gate. Then I heard from out of the crowd, "Enedina, Enedina!"

I stopped; the whole world stopped. It was my friend Margarita, whom I had met once in Los Angeles at a meeting at the Cathedral Center of the Diocese of Los Angeles.

As I reflect on that moment, I believe that is what the Episcopal Church is: a welcoming cry saying, "Welcome beloved friend". It says, "Join me on the journey to spread Gods love, word, and mystery". I am welcomed everyday by the Episcopal Church, I am loved, and I am with others on the path that Jesus laid out for us.