PRACTICING HOSPITALITY WITH YOUNG ADULTS IN MIND

How do we create an environment where young adults feel welcome in our homes? Hospitality sets the stage for community. Vulnerability and authentic connection are only possible when people feel at ease and comfortable. It might feel overwhelming to consider welcoming friends and strangers into your home, so here are a few things to remember that help young people feel welcomed and engaged. 

“Do not neglect hospitality, for through it some have unknowingly entertained angels.” - Hebrews 12:2

INVITE

Personal invitations go a long way. Set expectations for the kind of event: dinner or drinks or girls/guys night, and who else might be coming. This can ease anxiety and allow an informed choice. 

REINVITE

It’s good to invite once, better to follow up with a text or call confirming the invitation, especially if you casually invited them in person previously. This solidifies that you actually want to invite them, not that you are inviting them out of social pressure. It may be beneficial to keep a personal list of past invitees so that you do not neglect those who have not come to events in a while.

PLAN IT

If you are hosting a meal, inquire about food allergies or preferences. If your guests are bringing their kids, consider having a few toys and books handy, even if you don’t have children of your own. If you're not hosting dinner, consider having water, tea (and/or wine!) and a snack available.It doesn’t have to be fancy: chips and salsa, pastries from the grocery store, or a homemade treat- but only if you enjoy baking, not because you feel like you have to. Light a candle. If your house runs cold, have a basket of blankets for added coziness.

These small details make guests feel comfortable and seen, and it helps the gathering go more smoothly.

PRACTICE PRESENCE

It can be easy to get caught up still cleaning or cooking when guests arrive, but try your best to be present and calm. Even if you burned dinner or the house is messy, being present is more important and more impactful than a perfectly cooked meal or clean house. People remember how you make them feel, not how good the food was. 

ENGAGE

Are you hosting new friends? Consider having a few icebreaker type questions to warm up! Old friends? Be intentional and interested in their lives! It’s easy to have conversations about sports and the weather, but true friendships and community flourish in the ability to be vulnerable. Share in joys and in struggles authentically and consider praying together in thanksgiving and for intentions if you have a good rapport. 

Intentional conversation is a gateway to authentic community.

FOLLOW UP

Send a follow up text or call relaying how much you enjoyed hosting them and if you’d like to make plans again in the future. If not, that’s okay too! Setting healthy boundaries where your time and energy is respected is important. 

Hopefully you can integrate these suggestions as you prepare to host with intentionality this season.