Paws-itively welcome
Earlier this year, the public library system in Worcester, Massachusetts, came up with an interesting strategy to help borrowers get out of a somewhat hairy situation. For the entire month of March, any library members who misplaced a book or damaged a borrowed item would have their fines forgiven or debts cleared… with one simple act—they had to bring in a photo or drawing of a cat.
“It doesn’t even have to be a cat,” said Jason Homer, executive director of the library, “Any ungovernable animal will do.” One 7-year-old who never returned his “Captain Underpants” book was able to regain his library card when the staff handed him some crayons and he created his own sketch of a four-legged creature.
Within days of starting the promotion, more than 400 people had their library cards reactivated. And in the process, the seven branches throughout the Worcester area have received dozens of drawings, photos, and even personal visits from feline friends. “Act meow” the promotion reminded library-goers, so you can be “feline good” and start checking out books once again.
All in all, Worcester librarians came up with the idea to trade fines for cat photos simply as a way to get people back in the door. As one library worker put it: “We don’t want fines of any amount to make people think they’re not welcome here. You know what?” she said, “It’s OK! We forgive you.”
These librarians might be onto something here. At least, to the point that everyone deserves to feel like they belong, like there’s nothing that can keep them from walking through the door and being warmly welcomed.
Ideally, that’s exactly how a church should operate, too. It doesn’t matter what mistakes and missteps your past might hold. It’s not your impeccable record that’s needed. Or an expectation of flawlessness that gives you special access.
In a perfect world, churches might have more in common with libraries than we might think. They’re a gathering space where a vibrant, diverse community can come together. Where there’s nothing required of you but your presence. And where forgiveness and hospitality can be found in abundance. My hope is that every church might be a place where everyone belongs. Everyone matters. Everyone is welcome. Even with or without a photo of your cat.
Jana Baltimore
Love the analogy, Katy!
Love my church ( and my library)!
Chelle Davis
Very cute story Katie. My wish is that Everyone matters Everywhere! Thank you.
K.D. Kalber
Mew, paws-itively purrrrfect! We all belong!
Marcia Willi
Church is my “ place “ that I feel like I belong, thx Pastor Katy
Dixie Kutzbach
Love this, Katy.
Ronda Bird
This message was purrrrrfect, Katy!
Thank you!
Vicki Felger
Perfectly said! Thanks Katy!
Kathy Shepard
Lovely message Katy!❤️