The term radical hospitality can be defined as a practice of putting extraordinary effort and emphasis on making people feel welcome. This concept is often referred to as radical welcome and focuses on breaking down barriers that prevent people from participating in an effort, campaign, or community.

As you can tell from their smiles, all of these dear men loved to laugh and none ever met a stranger. They welcomed all and exemplified the love of Christ in word and deed. They were devoted to their Creator, families, community, and committed to improving the quality of life for all.

Thanks to memorial donations made in honor of John, DeLane, and Dickie, our beautiful solid mahogany doors were handcrafted by skilled local craftsmen.

• NOTE: In case you’re wondering why in the world we painted those glorious mahogany doors red, there are several reasons. One is that, based on the direction they face the sun, we were advised they’d weather better and longer under paint than sealant. The other reasons are: tradition, tradition, and tradition. 😜 My favorite explanation of these traditions comes from our friends in Eureka Springs, AR.

But I digress…

I could go on and on and on… about John, DeLane, and Dickie, individually, but another quality they shared was Presence. Every.single.time I was in the presence of any these men, I felt like nothing in the world was more important to them than the conversation we were sharing at.that.moment. What a gift. What a welcome.

If you knew John, DeLane, or Dickie, please feel free to share a story about how one of them made you feel welcome. If you didn’t know them, please feel free to share a story about how you felt welcomed by someone dear to you.