At first glance, hospitality may seem like just logistics—like checking people in to your event, offering coffee, and keeping spaces clean and tidy. But hospitality is not just about functionality—it can be a form of ministry when it is purposeful.

At Ridgecrest, we’ve witnessed something consistent over the last 100+ years that we’ve been in ministry. It’s this– the moments that impact guests most deeply don’t often happen during the keynote, but around the firepit, in the rocking chairs, during mealtime, or at the end of a hike, watching the sunrise. These seemingly regular moments can be places where your guests walk away spiritually impacted. 

Scripture has a couple of mentions of the word hospitality. However, even more passages in the Bible drive home the idea that hospitality should be a lifestyle of the believer, and not just what’s needed to host a good party. (Romans 12:13, Hebrews 13:2, 1 Peter 4:9) Let’s dive into what it means to make your next event not just efficient, but hospitable from a Christian perspective.

It Starts From the Top

Hospitality is not just the duty of the janitorial, event check-in, or kitchen staff members. Hospitality is the duty of all believers, and it should begin with leadership. Are you a hospitable leader? Have you expressed the importance of hospitality to your event staff and volunteers? Do you lead by example? Help your staff and volunteers understand how purposeful hospitality is ministry and it’s always worth their time. 

Atmosphere is still important

Hospitality begins first with your volunteers and leadership, but secondly in your event spaces. Ask the following questions when designing and planning your spaces: What does the room communicate before any words are spoken? Are there places for quiet reflection? Is signage clear enough to reduce anxiety? Are accommodations accessible for all?

Simple details like comfortable seating, clutter-free and clean spaces, and welcoming decor say to your guests, “We prepared this space with you in mind.”

Don’t rush it

Sometimes event planners jam-pack event schedules to be efficient and worth their attendees’ time. But we believe true hospitality always should give margin for relational ministry moments. The following questions can help you determine if you are leaving room for this margin: Are there specific time slots in your schedule for free time? Do the event leaders and speakers have the capacity to engage with attendees? 

Slowing down your event schedule or removing fluff isn’t lazy, it’s purposeful. 

In The End

At the end of the day, purposeful hospitality isn’t about having everything just right; it’s about creating space where people feel loved, seen, and ready to meet with God. Whether you’re planning a large conference or a quiet retreat, the little things you do intentionally can make a big impact. When we welcome people well, we’re not just hosting an event—we’re setting the table for something holy to happen. And that’s what it’s all about.

If you’re looking to create a retreat, conference, or event that’s rooted in gospel-driven hospitality, we’d love to partner with you! Contact us to schedule a tour or explore how your vision can come to life at Ridgecrest. Call (828) 669.8022.