CANTON – The Unitarian Universalist Church Religious Education Committee is helping the church community practice "radical hospitality."

The committee recently hosted a workshop presented by Sally Patton, author of “Welcoming Children with Special Needs: A Guidebook for Faith Communities.”

More than 50 members of North Country UU congregations participated.

Learn more about the workshop at www.uucantonny.organd more about Sally Patton and her book and programs at www.embracechildspirit.org.

"Our goal is to help the church community practice a deeper level of hospitality and welcome with those who may have challenges in their lives of which we have little knowledge," explained Sarah Bentley-Garfinkel, chair of the RE Committee. "Some of those challenges are visible and some are not. We wish to be more than tolerant, and this is where the practice of 'radical hospitality' comes in."

Ms. Patton led the group in discussions focused on "How we can strive to make the blessings of our congregation accessible to all who seek them" and "What is required of us to ensure that this is a safe space for everyone to worship, serve, learn, and grow."

"It was a great experience, exploring effective ways to acknowledge the inherent worth and dignity of every person and cultivating respect, understanding, and love in all our relations," said participant Rajiv Narula, who participated in the morning workshop as well as a more focused afternoon session.