Ushers at Hope Workers’ Center welcoming parishioners. Photo: Reins Mosqueda
"For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat; I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink; I was a stranger and you invited me in; I needed clothes and you clothed me; I was sick and you looked after me; I was in prison and you came to visit me." – Matthew 25:35-36
These words were written in Chinese characters on the wall outside the building where I served for 11 years in my ministry with mentally and physically challenged adult Taiwanese students. They served as a daily reminder of my call to show compassion and love in every aspect of my work. Little did I know that this same message would resonate with me again as I transitioned into my new ministry with migrants.
In my new role, I quickly learned that hospitality - offering kindness and care to those in need - is crucial for building a welcoming and inclusive community. Just as Christ extended His love to all who came to Him, we are called to open our hearts to everyone, including the hungry, the thirsty, the struggler, and the stranger.
Hospitality is not just about offering food, drink, or shelter; it’s about creating a safe space, showing kindness without expectations, and offering warmth to those who may feel unseen or unwanted.
In the church, ushers exemplify this spirit of hospitality. Their warmth and friendliness ensure that everyone feels welcomed and valued as they enter. Their role goes far beyond simply directing people to their seats. They help create a sacred space where individuals can open their hearts and prepare to receive God’s presence in the Eucharist. The ushers’ selfless dedication to hospitality has taught me that this practice isn’t just about actions; it’s a posture of love and care that transforms the entire environment.
However, the role of an usher is not without its difficulties. Some parishioners may disregard or disrespect them, yet these volunteers go on greeting everyone with grace and kindness. Their actions reflect Christ’s love, even when faced with rudeness. I’ve learned that to offer true hospitality, one must be willing to endure rejection and show love. The ushers’ resilience and their ability to remain composed and loving despite difficulties have deeply inspired me. They embody the very spirit of hospitality that I strive to practise in my own ministry.
As I step into my role at the migrant Hope Workers Center, I am reminded of the importance of hospitality in creating a community where every person feels valued. Many of the migrants I work with have left behind their homes, families, and cultures in search of a better life. They arrive with little more than hopes and dreams. Though many have faced great hardship, they continue to open their hearts to others.
The ushers themselves are migrants, so they deeply understand the challenges fellow migrant workers face. Even when they are tired or have personal concerns, these volunteers still dedicate their time and energy to serving God and the parishioners. Despite lacking sleep or having Sundays as their only day off, they show up with friendly smiles and warm attitudes, welcoming everyone into the church. Their selfless commitment is an inspiration to me as a missionary. Through their example, I have learned that true hospitality is not about perfection or comfort - it’s about selflessness, sacrifice, and a willingness to serve even in difficult circumstances. Truly, they are embracing the call of Jesus to be hospitable to all kinds of people, which encourages me to do the same in my own ministry.
Reflecting on my journey with the migrants for several months now, I’ve been deeply touched by their hospitality, which has drawn me closer to God. As I adjusted to my new role, their support and encouragement became a constant source of inspiration, making my work more meaningful. Though the work has been challenging at times, the warmth and care of the migrants around me have made the journey more fulfilling. Their kindness has fuelled my passion for mission.
As I reflect on the passage from Matthew 25, I realise that every act of hospitality is an opportunity to welcome Jesus Himself. As a missionary, I am called not only to serve others but also to see Christ in every person I encounter - whether they are hungry, thirsty, a stranger, or in need. The example set by the ushers has deeply inspired me, reminding me that true hospitality goes beyond meeting physical needs; it is about embracing others with the love and grace of Christ. In offering care and warmth to those I serve, I am not just extending kindness. I am welcoming Jesus into my life and ministry.
This passage challenges me to continually reflect on how I can embody this hospitality in my daily work. Every person I meet, especially the marginalised and struggling, is a chance to practise the love Christ has shown me. By welcoming them with open arms, I am fulfilling His call to love others as He has loved us. In my role as a missionary, I must always strive to welcome others as though I were welcoming Christ Himself. In this way, each encounter becomes a moment of transformation, not only for those I serve but also for myself as I grow in my faith and understanding of God’s love.
Columban lay missionary Reins Mosqueda lives and works in Taiwan.
For more information on the Hope Workers' Center in Taiwan visit: www.hopeworkerscenter.wordpress.com
Related links
- Read more from The Far East - March/April 2025
