This update is from Jerome Ellard, lead pastor at GCI’s congregation in Big Sandy, Texas.
The rain didn’t douse the enthusiasm of the volunteers and attendees at this year’s Fun ‘N Fall celebration held on Saturday, October 31, from noon to 4:00 PM at New Beginnings Christian Fellowship in Big Sandy. The purpose of the event, which we’ve held annually for several years, was to provide a means to connect our congregation to the people who live in our community. By gathering information about our guests, we have the means to develop those connections by inviting them to future events, our small groups and to our church services.
Due to the rain, we moved the event inside our church building. Fun games for the whole family filled our sanctuary and fellowship hall, as the building became an inside carnival. There were free hot dogs and drinks, popcorn and frozen chocolate yogurt for all, as well as many door prizes, drawings for two Wal-Mart gift cards and a cake walk. In addition, the Big Sandy police and fire departments each provided a vehicle for young participants to experience. Volunteers from the Lion’s Club provided free eye exams for 48 people. All had a good time.
We extend our thanks to several businesses in the community who provided their support to what has become a truly community-based event.
For those interested in how to assimilate those who visit the congregation into the ongoing life of your church, we recommend the book “Fusion” by Nelson Searcy. You can read excerpts at Google Books at
http://books.google.com/books?id=FRo8yjHFbRcC&printsec=frontcover&dq=Fusion+by+Nelson+Searcy&hl=en&sa=X&ved=
Pastor Jerome, Helen, Rick, Lois, the Allens and a host of others: It sure sounds like and looks like your community had a bunch of fun at your event. Maybe the rain forcing everyone inside was a blessing to create a more intimate environment and communication among the participants. Thanks for the ideas!