Calvary ​United Methodist Church

​Thoughts for the Journey

​   Throughout my time here in Rhode Island, I have been constantly amazed by the beauty of the nature surrounding me, the business of the Island, and the welcoming of the people. From the very first conversation I had with Pastor Laurie to the first full day on the Island, God was already working on how amazing the summer would be. Working with Laurie, for this church, has been a wonderful experience. The kindness and care offered to me from this faith community has helped heal some of the hurt caused by my home church. Thank you for being a part of my seminary and faith journey.

Throughout the summer, I have seen many examples of biblical hospitality across the island. From a Hebrew Bible perspective, hospitality was a necessity for survival, similar to the community meal, community garden and coffee hour after church.

Even the things that may seem like a frivolous task can be a necessity for one's soul. Hospitality is not exclusive to physical needs but also incorporates emotional, spiritual, mental, and communal needs. In the Greek Testament, it was less of a
necessity for survival and more about caring for others through
hospitable acts of service.

Several opportunities have been offered to us during the summer to share community with one another outside of Sunday morning, another act of hospitality. Our hospitality also extends to those who are not in our community of faith, for they are still a
part of God’s creation that deserves to be cared for. Coming into this internship, I had expectations to learn and a hope that I could possibly leave a positive impact at Calvary. Now with the
summer coming to an end, I can say I have learned many things and have been positively impacted by my experiences on the island. The hospitality you’ve shown to this southern born and raised girl from Texas has been uplifting and inspiring.

I will miss y’all terribly. Thank you for the wonderfully abundant lessons in holistic hospitality.

With gratitude and hope,
        Aurora Buchanan