A recent bumper sticker caught my eye. It read, God Bless the Whole World, No Exceptions. As director of religious education on a large university campus, I can relate. In my position, rarely a week goes by that I don’t meet a family from another part of our world. Some are merely vacationing for a few weeks, others are settling in forever, but either way, an important part of my job is to welcome and minister to them in God’s name. Of course this isn’t always easy even though we breathe the same air and drink the same water, for some of us shake hands and some of us bow when greeted. Some of us prefer tea and some of us coffee for breakfast. Some speak in many tongues and some use hand signals to get points across. And yet, we all desire inclusion. For those of us in ministry, this last statement is an important factor to keep in mind if we truly wish to minister to all who walk though our parish doors. So, how do minister to everyone and provide a sense of belonging when language and cultural norms differ so widely?

First, recognize the fact that although ministering to families from foreign lands can be a challenge - due to cultural, language, and socioeconomic barriers - our Catholic faith is universal. Because of this, when we minister to those from beyond our shores, in reality, we are actually ministering to extended members of our religious family. Our shared beliefs are often the magnet that brings them to our door in the first place. So, concentrate on the similarities that bind us together in faith and soon the differences will dissolve. When you take this small step the process of acceptance begins, for you and for them.

Next, get the language elephant off the table. Nobody expects you to know and understand all tongues, so be upfront about your language limitations. “I’m sorry I don’t know Korean, but I’m sure we can understand each other in other ways.” Then, speak slowly, use common words and include hand motions when appropriate. And please, don’t forget your sense of humor. A smile and a friendly face are universal signs of welcome. Use them often.

Recognize cultural differences. We may all be Catholic, but cultural differences exist from country to country. For instance, when you are talking to a family you notice the father takes the leading role in communicating. Address him each time, even if he turns to one of the children to translate. Eye contact is an indication of interest and understanding in most countries. Or, when you meet someone for the first time ready with a handshake but receive a bow instead, do both. Respect cultural differences and you respect the family. This goes a long ways towards making them feel at home.

Encourage a sense of community. Nothing discourages parish commitment faster than exclusion, whether intentional or not. Go over the basics with each new family on how you do things at your church. Explain specific parish procedures, such as, how communion is given and received, what the expectations for sacramental preparation are, and how communications are dispersed: by email, bulletin, the pulpit, meetings, etc. Also, as with anyone who joins your church community, introduce them to other members in your parish, but in this case, especially those from the same part of the world, or those who have recently immigrated to the United States. And don’t forget the children. Place them in religious education classes with children from similar backgrounds or origin and encourage catechists to talk about similarities and differences in foods, culture, and practices between our country and theirs. This way the children will feel included from the start, and the parents can relax a little. And perhaps most of all, let families know you are available whenever they have questions, comments or concerns. Having someone to call upon when they need help is invaluable, makes their transition easier, and makes them feel part of the community faster.

We live in a society that recognizes differences instead of similarities. The way someone dresses, talks, or engages in conversation can make us wary, even suspicious. But families are families worldwide, whether they dress in rainbow colors and long flowing skirts, prefer sushi over baked potatoes, or simply bow instead of shaking hands. All are looking for a place to call home, a place where their children are accepted and safe, and a place to grow in their faith. A sense of welcome and inclusion are universal desires for all, no matter whether the sun rises over mountains, desert, or ocean back home. As ministers, we need to remember it is our job to open those church doors wide for all who wish to worship with us, and never forget, the way we welcome others can be the deciding factor as to whether they come through our doors once or a thousand times.