As Coordinator of Hospitality Services here at Maryville Retreat Center, I often find myself reflecting on what the word hospitality truly means—for me and for each of our guests. The Oxford Dictionary defines hospitality as “the friendly and generous reception and entertainment of guests, visitors, or strangers.” Over the course of a new blog series, I invite you to journey with me as we take a deeper look at how hospitality is lived and practiced here at Maryville.
I’d like to begin with how we express that “friendly and generous reception.” For the Felician Sisters and the staff of Maryville Retreat Center, hospitality begins with a warm, welcoming atmosphere—one in which every guest feels seen, acknowledged and valued from the moment they step through our doors. Our mission is to cooperate with Christ in the spiritual renewal of all people and that renewal begins with the very first step taken across our threshold.
For us, the word welcome means much more than a simple greeting. It is an intentional act of presence. It means looking each guest in the eye and saying, in word and spirit: We are so glad you are here. Come and be well with us. Make yourself at home—with us and with God. Please let us know how we can help make your stay restful and meaningful.
Introducing guests to our Sisters and staff is another important expression of hospitality. Sharing names and roles is done with purpose—to assure guests that there are caring people in every department ready to support their needs. We want our guests to feel comfortable approaching any Sister or staff member at any time. At Maryville, we strive to say “yes” whenever possible, responding with openness and generosity to requests and concerns.
Even the natural world around us participates in this welcome. The delight on guests’ faces when they encounter sandhill cranes, deer or the many turkeys that roam our grounds—sometimes just beyond the patio doors—is a joy to witness. We believe these creatures, too, are part of Maryville’s hospitality, welcoming our guests in their own quiet and sacred way.
So, come and be well with us. We invite you to explore our website to learn more about Maryville Retreat Center and all we offer to support your spiritual renewal. We roll out the welcome mat, open our doors wide and look forward to receiving you with open hearts.
A warm welcome to Maryville.
-Sister Noel
