Interfaith Hospitality Network
As a host congregation in this national program, we are part of a network of 27 congregations in the Cincinnati area who take turns hosting homeless families during the evening and nighttime hours. Each congregation hosts for a week at a time and we have 6 hosting weeks during the year, usually about every 2 months. Hosting weeks begin on Sunday evenings and end the following Sunday morning. Guests arrive at the church at about 5:00 in the evening and stay until the following morning, when they leave to return to the IHN Day Center, school, or work. This ministry is open to all ages, and is an especially great ministry for families with young children. During each hosting week, volunteers are needed to help set up the bedrooms and clean up after the hosting is over, prepare and serve the evening meal, spend time with the children, and serve as overnight host. For more information about IHN, Contact Kathryn Albertson. Click here for more information about our local IHN network.
This is a critical ministry as we live into Church of the Redeemer’s vision of a church “sent into the world, rooted and grounded in love, to serve all people with humility, compassion, and faithfulness." Here’s what some of our volunteers and guests have to say about their experience:
"I have always know that whatever was given/prepared was appreciated and accepted with heartfelt thankfulness. I will continue to be of service to do our Lord's will. Thank you for this privilege." - Redeemer IHN Volunteer
“This church is very generous. The meals are good and I am grateful to the people who come play with my children. It sort of gives me a break.” - IHN Guest
“I get a great sense of humility being of service to the families of IHN. God works through all people. Jesus loved us all - so can I. Love wins.” - Redeemer IHN Volunteer
Additional resources:
Redeemer IHN ministry’s private Facebook page
Redeemer IHN Volunteer Handbook
Redeemer IHN Activity Host Job Description
Redeemer IHN Dinner Host Job Description
Redeemer IHN Host/Opener Job Description
Redeemer IHN Overnight Host Job Description
Collection for Interfaith Hospitality Network
