Outreach Update - 2013

Hello Everyone,

I wanted to take a moment and share some exciting news and plans coming from the Outreach committee.  Although it may seem like we have been quiet since Easter, there has been a lot of behind the scenes activity in the past few months to share.

First off, our efforts over the Christmas and Easter holidays has resulted in some interested guests and families attending our church over the past few months.  If you see an unfamiliar face, please make sure to introduce yourself and make them feel welcome.  The committee has been hard at work following up on these people with "Hot Chocolate" baskets and visits to their home.  The response to this has been very positive.

Secondly, I would like to list the upcoming events for 2013, as well as opportunities for you to participate with us.

PARKING LOT SALE MAY 18th: 
The outreach committee will be present at the Parking Lot Sale, making sure to hand out church brochures and answer any questions folks may have about our ministry.  If you plan to help at the parking lot sale, consider the opportunity for outreach during this time as well.

PRESCHOOL CONSTRUCTION HELP:
 The outreach committee has identified the work associated with the preschool as a great opportunity for future outreach and evangelism.  Therefore the committee has agreed to assist in that effort in any way we can.  We plan to help clean up or protect areas during the construction, provide meals and refreshments on work days, and lend a hand whenever possible.  If you would like to be a part of this project but are not good at swinging a hammer, consider helping the outreach committee with our behind the scenes support and assistance.

VBS JULY 29th thru August 1:
VBS is a great outreach opportunity for our church as young families bring their little ones to us for a week of learning about Jesus.  Last year we were able to follow up on several guests that came during that time.  We would like to do that again this year.  You can participate in this by helping to deliver cookies or other baskets to guests after the week.  This follow up is essential to thank families for attending and inviting them back for worship.  There is also opportunity for preschool and elementary school enrollment as well.

FRIENDSHIP SUNDAY Sept. 18th:
We are in the planning stages of hosting a friendship Sunday on September 18th.  This date is very strategic in that it is the first week of Sunday school, it is generally well attended from members after a long (or short) summer, and there will be two services to choose from.  We are planning to do a "Name Tag" Sunday as well so that everyone has a name tag and can engage in conversation with any guests that attend.  We will reach out to the VBS attendance, past guests that have not attended for a time, and will do an aggressive outreach into the community.  As you can see there is great opportunity for participation in this event, such as canvasing, greeting, inviting, helping with the service in some way, following up with guests, etc.  More to follow on this event in the near future

GREETING - EVERY SUNDAY:
The outreach committee is very happy and thankful for the volunteers who have helped great in the past.  If you have not had the opportunity to participate, please feel free to sign up.  Greeting is a very valuable opportunity for both fellowship and outreach.  There is nothing better than a smiling face at the door to brighten your worship!

Lastly, I wanted to take a moment and introduce your new Outreach Committee chairman - Jacob Mozolik.  Jake has proven to be a great leader on the committee and shows dedication and commitment to the ministries at faith.  I am excited to see the outreach committee develop and grow under his leadership.  I have had a great experience this past year serving on the outreach committee and am very thankful for all the support and encouragement that was given during my time.

As always, if you have any questions or want to know how you can get involved, please don't hesitate to contact me Jake, or one of the other outreach committee members.

Many Blessings,

Matt Klebs