A Catholic diocese in Southern California is turning to a surprising source for lessons on how its parishes can be more welcoming: Disneyland, known since 1955 as “The Happiest Place on Earth.”
The Diocese of Orange is partnering with former Disney executives from the world-famous theme park located within the diocese to train staff and volunteers at parishes across the diocese in what they call “radical hospitality.”
No, the diocese isn’t planning on introducing costumed characters or immersive light displays at Mass, but it does think parishes can learn a thing or two from the successful theme park about creating an atmosphere that makes first-time visitors want to return.
Auxiliary Bishop Timothy Freyer, who is overseeing the evangelization initiative, which is launching as the diocese celebrates its 50th anniversary, told the Register that the diocese is proud of the way it has served the 1.3 million Catholics in the diocese but convicted of the need to focus on the rest.
“There are a couple million people that aren’t Catholic, and the Lord wants to be in relationship with every one of those people,” Bishop Freyer said.
The idea of fostering a culture of radical hospitality grew out of his experience
