They have good marketing advice, and are bold to use Christian Aid week as part of their opening 'donation' - sounds as if you were in the right place to me.
Cheers Freda, yes, that's exactly what it felt like!
Steve... always one in the fridge!
Salt and light, eh, Sue?
Thanks one and all, PB
14 May 2010 at 17:40
[Image] I have to confess to a bit of shyness when it comes to walking into places I am not already familiar with. It is always a joy to be made welcome and last Sunday, visiting a new Parish, I noticed I wasn't the only one who was warmly welcomed. The small team of 'Welcomers' made sure everyone was comfortable, understood what was going to happen, where the facilities were and where to get refreshments.
Throughout the evening the joy of all the key people involved in this new 'Outreach' venture was impressive and reassuring at every level even from the top. During the collection, as the bucket went round, it was made absolutely clear that donations were an extra voluntary contribution which would all go to Christian Aid along with an extra contribution from those taking part.
I was uncomfortable, though. I had a knawing sense of guilt and discomfort that actually this is exactly how churches should 'feel'? However, this wasn't even a church initiative put on in the very splendid new music venue 'The Farncombe Cavern' but one run by the Freeholder's Pub team in Surrey who chose to make their opening night a flag to indicate the start of Christian Aid Week...
"Back to Pub Sunday..."
7 Comments -
The ministry of hospitality and welcome is one closest to the heart of God...
11 May 2010 at 14:53
as you say if only churches were more like that! It'd be good to meet for a pint next time we are down your way :-)
11 May 2010 at 15:43
Yay, Julie, any excuse for a party!
Great, Sally, await your next in-law invitation then?!
11 May 2010 at 16:30
They have good marketing advice, and are bold to use Christian Aid week as part of their opening 'donation' - sounds as if you were in the right place to me.
11 May 2010 at 16:54
Jesus wasn't averse to his day's equivalent of a pint! Old Speckled Hen for me.
11 May 2010 at 18:28
EVERY church should have a "pint and a prayer" night down the local pub.
11 May 2010 at 19:52
Cheers Freda, yes, that's exactly what it felt like!
Steve... always one in the fridge!
Salt and light, eh, Sue?
Thanks one and all, PB
14 May 2010 at 17:40