Hosting your companions
A visitor from Tanzania meets a young Nebraskan Lutheran.
View Slideshow Accompaniment includes graciously receiving the gifts of our companions. Welcoming visitors is at the heart of receiving..
When we open our lives and homes to offer hospitality to others, we are blessed by one another. We create a space in which host and guest share one another's joys and sorrows, gifts and blessings. Both are ambassadors of their churches, building bridges between cultures and countries.
Extending hospitality to global companions can be an exciting and educational experience. Use this section of the handbook to explore this important ministry.
PART V: HOSTING INTERNATIONAL GUESTS.................................................................. 56
The gift of cultural exchange................................................................................................ 56
Helpful resources on hosting international guests........................................................ 56
Set the vision and purpose.................................................................................................. 56
Keep both bishops in the loop!........................................................................................... 57
Who should visit?................................................................................................................... 57
Send the invitation.................................................................................................................. 57
Agree on mutual responsibilities........................................................................................ 57
Sample planning timeline.................................................................................................... 58
Plan the visit............................................................................................................................ 59
Help guests secure visas.................................................................................................... 60
Detailed itineraries can help................................................................................................ 60
Practicing ahead of time is a good idea............................................................................ 61
Start early................................................................................................................................. 61
Arrange tours and visits........................................................................................................ 61
Plan on rest, spontaneity and family visits........................................................................ 61
Address financial issues early............................................................................................ 61
Arrange for housing............................................................................................................... 62
Arrange local transportation................................................................................................. 62
Provide insurance for medical care.................................................................................... 62
Enable guests to share......................................................................................................... 62
Orient your visitors.................................................................................................................. 63
During the visit......................................................................................................................... 63
When the visit ends................................................................................................................. 64
Appendices
Appendix 7: Sample letter of invitation to guest................................................................ 80
Appendix 8: Sample official invitation addressed to consulate..................................... 81
Appendix 9: Visas.................................................................................................................... 82