Looking for an idea to engage your neighborhood?
Read about Saturday in the Community at The Blind Beggar. (Photo from the Website).
The last church I served does something similar at Christmas time. Local churches donate toys that are sold in the local low-income community. Proceeds buy more toys that morning until the funds run out.
At back to school time, there is a similar event with school supplies, and a gathering where the local principal comes and welcomes the new kids.
The story at the blog article at the Blind beggar adds a bible giveaway.
Perhaps additional “stations:”
1. Prayer Station.
A prayer station is a booth or table a place where people wanting prayer can seek it out. Perhaps that’s a spot to give Bibles away to. People can be invited to fill out a card if they wish further follow up. Read more on how to setup a prayer station
2. Church information
A display booth with promotional materials about church programs, contact information, schedule of future events etc.
No matter how your church event is done, an important feature is to repeatedly do it, so that its something the church becomes known for in the neighborhood.
No need to be disappointed if there is not an increase in attendance at church the next day. I’ve observed through experience that it may take a few years before people start trickling in after they’ve learned the church cares.
Let me ask you this:
Does your church regularly host an event that is geared towards serving the neighborhood?
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Our main neighborhood thrust is during our summer VBS. Also during our Sunday pm Children’s activities, we bus kids in from the neighborhood surrounding our church.