In her book, Invite Welcome Connect: Stories & Tools to Transform Your Church, Mary Foster Parmer offers a challenge to the 21st Century church: “For our congregations to thrive—spiritually and numerically—we need more than a newcomer ministry. For us to live into God’s call to share the good news of Christ far and wide, to serve the poor, and to love our neighbors, we need a ministry that is deeper and wider than we have imagined, that not only invites and welcomes visitors but also works to fully incorporate them into the body of Christ.”
Are you intrigued? Want to learn more? Then please come join the five-week discussion group. Each session will include a scripture study, video and discussion on the topics of evangelism (a scary word for many Anglicans, so let's talk about it!), hospitality and connectedness. Come and learn about a model that makes the 'everyone is welcome' church sign a reality not an oxymoron.
Reverend Leslie is also willing to host an evening discussion group if there is enough interest. If you are interested, please register for the evening session and indicate which evening of the week works best for you. Registration is available on the 'welcome' table outside the church or by emailing Elizabeth in the office admin@stphilipcedar.ca. A book is encouraged for this study - As usual, you are still welcome if you don't read the book. For the first session please read ch. 1 & 2. Books are available at Amazon or Nanaimo Christian Book & Music.