Radical Hospitality
We are a vibrant, open, friendly, and diverse community. A place of acceptance and celebration, that practices radical hospitality.
St. Stephen Episcopal Church is progressive Christian community. We welcome people of all races, gender identities, abilities, immigration statuses, ages, and sexualities.
We strive to live out our values in the world through action. St. Stephen’s has a history of promoting women’s leadership in the church and supporting full inclusion of LGBTQIA members. We were the first Episcopal Church in Houston to celebrate a gay wedding.
Our church is actively working on anti-racism efforts internally and in the community.
What is Radical Hospitality?
Grounded in the belief that all individuals are created in the image of God, we embrace the call to welcome and affirm the dignity of every human being. Inspired by Jesus’ radical inclusivity, as Episcopalians we strive to create communities where everyone feels valued, respected, and loved.
How do we practice Radical Hospitality?
First, by creating spaces where diversity is celebrated, and where individuals are invited to bring their whole selves, regardless of their background, identity, or beliefs. This means actively dismantling the barriers that separate us, such as prejudice, discrimination, and exclusion, and replacing them with the radical love and acceptance that Jesus exemplified.
Radical hospitality goes beyond the confines of the church walls. It compels us to engage with the broader society, seeking justice and advocating for those who are marginalized and oppressed. This commitment to social transformation is rooted in the belief that every person is a beloved child of God, deserving of dignity, compassion, and equity.
Currently, we practice Radical Hospitality through different actions:
– Faith from the Margins Podcast
– Advocacy, Protests, etc
If you want to learn more about these efforts or have any questions, feel free to contact our Social Justice Team at socialjustice@ststephenshouston.org
There are also several ministries that our St. Stephen’s community supports, with different levels of involvement.