Three Hellos and One Hope

Editorial by Marcellus T. Robinson

I was pleasantly surprised to receive a flyer in the mail from one of our own churches the other day. This church, located about eight miles from my home, invited all in the neighboring community to join its “Forecasting Hope” prophecy seminar, providing all the necessary information for me to attend. So, attend I did.

On my way to the church, I received a call from G. Alexander Bryant, president of the North American Division, in which I shared with him that I was headed to a local church that was engaging in Pentecost 2025 to carry out the mission of evangelism. We rejoiced in the moment!

As I approached the entrance to the church, my heart was beating with joy. There was a banner that read, “Welcome,” and a greeter approached me with an inviting smile and handshake. It reminded me that sometimes the simplest acts can reflect the love of Christ more deeply than words alone.

The greeter directed me to the registration table where another member provided me with a gift bag containing all the resources needed for the seminar: the church’s card with a QR code, a small water bottle, a study guide for the night’s message, a Bible study reference sheet and a daily prayer journal. Then, an usher pleasantly guided me to my seat. From a visitor’s perspective, I, an unknown guest, was amazed to receive three warm welcomes in one night!

The meeting was equally wonderful, and several people from the community attended. The pastor preached an inspiring, hope-filled message about the love of God and His eternal law: to point us to Jesus and the sacrifice He made on the cross. He concluded with a prayer for all to receive the gift of God’s love in Christ.

But the warmth didn’t end there. Before exiting the church, one of the greeters I had met earlier invited me to return. From the time I entered to the time I left, I was received with love and care.

This is church at its best—sharing Christian love and inviting others to learn of Christ, accept Christ and continue to grow in Christ. When the church reflects Christ’s love through genuine warmth, organization and a message of hope, it is a powerful tool for evangelism and spiritual growth.

May the Holy Spirit continue to use simple acts of kindness and Spirit-filled teaching to draw hearts to Jesus. Let the spirit of Pentecost—warm hospitality, powerful truth and deep community—continue to permeate our churches until we see Jesus’ return in the clouds of glory!

Marcellus T. Robinson serves as the president of the Columbia Union Conference.