Grand Valley United Methodist Student Fellowship Director

Heather Grubaugh

227 E. Fulton

Grand Rapids, MI 49503

616 451-2879 ext. 128

gvumsf_@hotmail.com

Words from Heather:

Welcome back

Welcome home

This is a very interesting concept for me right now. I was in South Africa over Christmas, for 3 weeks. I experienced some radical hospitality. I felt very welcomed in the homes that I stayed in. I was offered my own bedroom, my own bathroom, a key to the house, my selection of home cooked meals, tea and coffee every morning and evening, a ride to and from wherever I wanted to go, the lists go on. I was not expecting such an accommodating trip. I thought that we, my friend Angie and I, would have to ride public transportation a lot and walk. Now there is the possibility that because we were staying with relatives of relatives we got preferential treatment. I just wonder if I would be such a great hostess if someone visited me from another

continent?

Then I think about my everyday life. How do I help others to feel comfortable or at ease in my presence? How am I attentive to others? I am not saying to put others needs above your own all the time. You need to take care of yourself. I just mean being attentive and aware. I think about the Grand Valley United Methodist Student Fellowship. Are we radical with our hospitality? When new people come to visit do they feel at home, comfortable, or wanted?

I hope that this ministry is sharing a feeling of welcome to those around us. I know that I have to work on being more hospitable. It is one of my commitments this semester. Will you join me in welcoming new and old faces this semester?

Thank you for your prayers during my trip.
See you soon
Heather

Link to Hurricane Katrina relief

O Lord, grant me to greet the coming day in peace, help me in all things to rely upon your holy will. In every hour of the day reveal your will to me. Bless my dealings with all who surround me. Teach me to treat all that comes to throughout the day with peace of soul and with firm conviction that your will governs all. In all my deeds and words, guide my thoughts and feelings. In unforeseen events, let me not forget that all are sent by you. Teach me to act firmly and wisely, without embittering and embarrassing others. Give me strength to bear the fatigue of the coming day with all that it shall bring. Direct my will, teach me to pray. And you, yourself, pray in me. Amen.
St. Philaret of Moscow

Heather in Africa