Saint Louis University

SCHOOL OF TEACHER EDUCATION AND LIBERAL ARTS

Department of Religion

Module 3, Unit 2 (Engage) – Activity

What are the necessary elements needed in preparation for welcoming a family
member or a friend coming home from abroad or a distant place? What should
we consider as most important as we prepare for it?

 If a member of our family visits, we normally cook a large dinner.

and banding together as a family Not just our family members, but also our friends and
acquaintances.  Almost the entire family will be getting ready. It's been a part of our "normal" for
a long-time celebration. If it's a friend, we greet them with a warm welcome.  When they come to
visit, they do the same to our homes, and we do the same to them. We're always ready to help.  
We welcome them with our best food, and we have a little fun. Throw a party for the kids and
provide awards.   However, at the start of each, our grandmothers pay respect to our late great-
grandfather (atang) throughout the event, as is customary.

We should think about what these people are going through.

Those who are welcoming or will be welcomed will always have a safe journey. It isn't true.  We
must always pray for them, whether they are relatives or friends as well as their safety. We must
constantly be prepared for their favorite activities and recall the interactions we had with them to
be a part of their lives.