The fourth virtue is that flourishing churches relentlessly work to connect with and welcome others into their church families. They do this, not to benefit themselves, but as an effort to love God by loving others. Flourishing churches have rediscovered what’s great about the Good News of God’s love. Their personal experiences of that Good News in their own lives drives them, compels them to share their faith, hope, and love with others and invite others to experience God’s love for themselves.

When we reach out to others with sympathy rather than lectures... with empathy rather than judgement... with compassion rather than referrals... that’s when hearts and conversational doors open, and we can most effectively share the joy of having a personal, loving relationship with God. When we share the Good News, the GREAT News of God’s love in such a compassionate, personal way, people will feel genuinely welcomed into the Kingdom of God, a place of rest, healing, growth, and peace... a place of shalom.