Welcoming the stranger by Paul Alcorn
Living Faith in a Time of Division
“In a world quick to divide ‘us’ from ‘them,’ our faith calls us to do something radical: welcome the stranger.”
Recent anti-immigration rallies across Australia, some linked to far-right groups, have highlighted divisions in our society. Clashes and extremist voices remind us how fear and suspicion of “the other” can spread when communities feel threatened. As Anglicans, these events challenge us to respond differently – through hospitality to strangers.
Hospitality in the Bible is more than politeness – it is a sacred act. Abraham’s welcome to three strangers in Genesis 18 and Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 25 show that when we embrace those who are vulnerable or marginalised, we are serving Christ himself. In today’s context, this calls us to resist attitudes that divide, alienate, or dehumanise people because of where they were born or who they are.
The rallies in Sydney, Melbourne, and Adelaide reveal the human tendency to create “us” and “them”. Hospitality challenges us to cross those boundaries, to act with courage and kindness, and to see our shared humanity. It is a daily practice of welcoming difference, offering support, and speaking out against injustice. It is about more than opening our doors – it is about opening our hearts, listening with empathy, and stepping into the lives of those who feel unseen or unwelcome.
In our parish, this can take simple, practical forms: inviting newcomers to church events, hosting coffee mornings or conversation groups, mentoring or befriending those new to the area, or simply offering a friendly word to someone who feels invisible. Each act of genuine welcome strengthens community and demonstrates God’s reconciling love in action. Even small gestures – a smile, a listening ear, a shared meal – can ripple outward, building bonds that defy fear and suspicion.
Hospitality is not optional for Christians; it is central to our faith. In a world where fear and division are often amplified, our choice to welcome, listen, and care is a powerful witness to God’s love. Every time we make space for a stranger, we proclaim that in Christ there are no outsiders, only brothers and sisters.
So, let us ask ourselves: How can we, in small but meaningful ways, open our hearts and homes to the stranger? Who in our community might need the warmth of welcome this week? What simple act of kindness could signal to someone that they belong? How might our parish become a place of safety, comfort, and encouragement for all?
May our parish be a place where hospitality is lived, not just spoken – a place where all are seen, heard, and embraced as children of God. In welcoming the stranger, we practice the radical love of Christ and help build a community where no one feels alone, and everyone belongs.