Saturday, June 11, 2011

Welcome Newcomers!

Our dedicated Congregational Committee doesn't put on a Newcomers Dinner every year, but I sat down with our administrator, Helen, a few weeks ago and we identified more than 30 new people to our congregation since last September, most of them since January. Go figure! I wish I could say why, but I ain't complaining.

The committee is preparing the dinner for this evening, and 20 or so of those 30 will be our special guests. The event is low-key with no "pitch" for the attendees. It is simply an opportunity to offer a welcome and a thank you for choosing St. Paul's. In this day it is no small thing to choose a place of worship and a faith community. We are very grateful.

Have you attended one of these dinners, either as a welcoming board member or as a welcomed newbie? Are you part of the preparation of the dinner? Good idea?

6 comments:

Forail said...

Indeed! I have attended both as a newcomer and as a board member. It's a wonderfully welcomg event, to let our new members meet more of the congregation! It's a fabulous function of fellowship! :)

Laurie said...

I attended as a newcomer. Great meal, didn't really meet anybody, but I think that would depend on what table you are assigned to sit at. I think it is a good idea in theory as long as people are mixed up so the can meet new people to talk to. Also maybe if the different groups of the church were there to recruit volunteers(may be an idea to get people involved). All in all a good idea to make people feel a little bit of a welcome.

Nancy said...

Have been on both sides and will be involved in preparing the dinner. Always a very rewarding experience. As a committee we try to mix it up every year, so hopefully all will feel welcome. Gotta run, pies in the oven......

Anonymous said...

Never attended although i am quite excited to go tonight.

Shane Hartwell said...

I am truly sorry that We will be unable to attend, especially hearing that there are pies in the oven!! It is a GREAT idea, one more way that St. Pauls shows it warmth.

David Mundy said...

The meal was a delight. Great food and wonderful people. It was our pleasure to offer this informal welcome to everyone from toddler Nathaniel to senior citizens.

Don't worry Shane, the desserts were terrible! Such a lie, and from a minister no less.