Sunday, October 26, 2008

Friendship Sunday

Today was Friendship Sunday at St. Paul's, an initiative of our Pastoral Care committee. Our members were asked to invite a friend, which many did. The theme of worship was friendship and after the service was over everyone was invited to roam the building looking at displays from various groups and committees of the congregation. Of course we also fed people!

Friendship Sunday was a big success in many respects.

Worship was both meaningful and fun, with lots of great music and involvement on the part of children. The excellent organization meant that the displays were well done and informative. A number of our own crowd said it was a good reminder of just how active the St. Paul's congregation is. We need the occasional affirmation.

Visitors were delighted. Lots of them are already members of other churches but as I schmoozed the repeated comment was that there was so much joyful energy -- and they loved seeing the children. The woman who brought the book table from United Church Publishing was so enthusiastic about the event that she was sure it should be written up for the United Church Observer magazine.

Rev. Cathy and I breathed a huge sigh of relief when the young couple she interviewed as the "sermon" actually showed. Erin and Adam are expecting a child on Tuesday and we had a "Plan B" in the event that the due date wasn't accurate. Babies have a way of showing up when they want to.

St. Paul's is known as the friendly congregation. I would like to think this was borne out this morning. As we reminded ourselves in worship, the ultimate friendship is with Christ who chooses us.

4 comments:

Laurie said...

The music was WONDERFUL!
I do have one question. When did clapping start in church?? And why all the time? The last two Sundays have been interrupted with clapping. Just wondering.

David Mundy said...

You may notice Laurie that I just don't clap that often. I have even encouraged the congregation not to be "clap happy" because worship is not entertainment or a concert. Ultimately what we are doing needs to be God-directed. There are occasions when it is entirely appropriate -- a fiftieth wedding anniversary announcement perhaps -- or gratitude for something truly out of the ordinary. But not all the time.

The upside? People have something they figure is worth applauding!

Deborah Laforet said...

"Friendship Sunday" sounds like a wonderful idea. Maybe it is something we could use here. Thanks for the idea!

David Mundy said...

Lois was the instigator and "inspirator" Deb. With Jenny and the committee it was so well executed.