Divine hospitality, shalom and a sense of home? A theological reflection based on the voices of older people living in residential care homes

Giving hospitality is recognised as important for older people living in residential care homes, and the formation of hospitable relationships is one way that care homes can become more homelike. In this paper, I demonstrate how, from a Christian perspective, hospitable relationships reflect the nature and character of God, lead towards shalom and, for some people, contribute to a sense of home. The paper concludes with recommendations for care homes and the wider community.