Anglican ethos does not always fit in with societal patterns. Christmas and Easter are our important cycles! Amén! But ‘Back to School’ and ‘New Year’s Resolutions’ are an important part of the American psyche and are not attached to a liturgical feast. They both occur in Ordinary Time.
The first few weeks of the new school year (August) including just after Labor Day, and the three weeks of January after winter break are crucial visitation times to your church. Families are moving in and looking to join in the Fall and individuals are looking toward something new at the beginning of the year. (Normally, this is recovery time from the seasonal rush!) Let’s plan, not panic!
In preparation for August ‘Back to School’ what is your plan to receive the visitors to your Parish? Canon Chris Sorenson points out that the window of opportunity is small. It is important to capture info: refreshed sign-in cards and check-in for children’s ministry are possibilities. Have your children ministries fully staffed and ready to go and all members smiling, ready to make new friends.
Also, have a new-comer mid-week, evening dessert planned after three-four weeks (previously announced each week), accompanied by staff and church members to meet and make friends. Provide childcare. Introductions of staff, a short history of the Parish, introductions of all in the room, breaking into small groups to share how/why they came to your church, overview of discipleship, and then dismiss with official closing prayer. But hang around for individual (not group) questions. (This will mitigate any controversial issues.) Hopefully, a newcomer’s class can follow.
Canon Chris suggests tailored announcements and additional ‘prayers of the people’ that give a flavor of your church vision. If our vision is mission oriented: talk and pray about the upcoming mission project. If our vision is mercy: mention and pray about the activity of a local outreach. Then later, having emails in hand, staff and appointed laity can follow-up with a cup of coffee invite to visit newcomers again instead of knocking on doors at homes.
Bishop Frank chats with Canon Chris…. Fall opportunities are coming!