IGNITING MINISTRY NEWS UPDATE

August 2004

     Summer is coming to an end and it is time to start thinking about the fall and the time when many of us get back into out normal routine with kids returning to school, regular attendance at church, and vacations being over. The Igniting Ministries committee is excited for our traditional tailgating party that is scheduled for the first Sunday after Labor Day, September 12^th. We want to once again challenge each and every member and friend of Trinity to invite a friend or neighbor to come enjoy our celebration of Christ's ministry and the great food that our men cook up for our picnic. We love to wear our favorite school or professional team colors and cheer for the Trinity team. We also want to let everyone know that we will be meeting as a committee on the third Wed. of each month at 7:30 pm in the conference room. If anyone is interested in being on our committee we would love to have you join us. We are especially looking for some young people to help out. If you need more information please call Judy Blaufuss.

     We will continue with the theme: "Hospitality as Ministry". The goal is to continue to develop an inviting lifestyle in our church. In so doing, we are being disciples for Christ. The National Theme: "Open Hears, Open Minds, Open Doors" will continue being seen on TV and in printed ads, and heard on radio this fall with the message:
"If you're searching for something to believe in or belong to, you're not alone. Our hearts, our minds, and our doors are always open...The people of the United Methodist Church".

     Today, people join congregations, not denominations. They "shop" for churches, looking for activities that meet their needs.

     The message of redemption maybe the same from church to church, but the congregation itself needs to fit what the person is looking for. The pitfall for many churches is that we think we are friendly because we are friendly to each other. In developing a welcoming ministry we must begin to see ourselves as others do. I will remind you a statistic that I have mentioned before that research has shown there is a 10 minute rule. The Decisions is made within the first 10 minutes whether or not they will return to visit our church again. This really emphasizes the importance of each of us being welcoming and helpful in our very first encounter with new friends.

     So, come this September 12^th and join the Tailgating party and remember to bring a friend.

Thanks,
Judy Blaufuss

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page last updated: July 30, 2004