Evangelism Committee Meeting – 04/19/12

Present: M. Catter, C. Clark, V. LaMaison, A. Leonard, P. Masquelette, K. Wynn, Fr. Garrin and Fr. Kline. Absent: J. Browne, D. Chumley, S. O’Neill and M. Tao.

Scripture: John 20:119-23; 26-31. Sharing. Prayer: Epiphany 2 (BCP p. 163)

Feedback re: “List of Items on Our Plate:”

In general, a study was done regarding making changes and worker productivity. The study of workers revealed that their productivity increased when the lighting was increased or decreased just a little. Among other things, this suggests that, when making changes, perhaps they ought to come in small vs. huge doses, and incrementally vs. abruptly.

We need to seek innovative ways to reach out, not only in the neighborhood, but to the larger community (we are now the only Episcopal Church in Plano).

We recognize that our worship does not appeal broadly to a largely non-liturgical protestant culture. We should make full use of our website to help others discover us, what we stand for and how we worship and serve our Lord Jesus Christ.

Re: Sunday visitors:

If coffee is available in the hall, invite them to partake and meet a few persons upon arrival. Following the Mass, a few members (3-5) might invite a visitor(s) to accompany them to lunch. Then a follow-up visit by two parishioners.

We recognize the need for Christian formation – now that we are “Christians” what does that mean in terms of our faith and spiritual discipline (clergy input). Formation could be dealt with in a class or in a small group (home) setting. It was noted that the youth group has faced some aspects of this.

We recognize that we are unlearned and unskilled regarding sharing our faith with others; but we now have an excellent (Episcopal) resource to teach us how we, as Episcopalians, can learn to share our faith with other people. We need to offer that opportunity in a class setting.

Some parishioners have said that they are hesitant to invite others to worship with us, because they do not fully comprehend what this or that means, or why something is done or happens. That is an important concern and needs to be addressed.

The regular (after Mass) offering of prayer by Stephen Ministers obviously meets a need. Perhaps having two persons available would encourage more members to utilize this ministry. This possibility will be explored.

Next meeting: Thursday, 24 May 2012 (because the 3rd Thursday is Ascension Day)

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