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READY OR NOT, HERE THEY COME!

HARVEST has already been a wonderful program for St. John's to undertake this fall. The conversations that have happened as parishioners have phoned folks in our community, the compassion that has been aroused, the prayers that have been extended and answered!-all these things have greatly encouraged our parishioners, stirred up their faith, and have inspired them to think about people in our neighborhood who do not have a church home. I would say that Harvest has already been a success, even if no one shows up on Harvest Sunday!

But that's not going to happen. On November 9, Harvest Sunday, we will have people who have said "Yes" to our invitation filling our pews at the 10:30 Eucharist. An estimated number, based on those who have already said "Yes," is that we will have around forty guests. And actually, we already had people show up in response to our Harvest invitations. All of this means that we need to be ready to welcome newcomers into the St. John's community in an intentional way.

St. John's is already a welcoming community. I am often told by newcomers that they have found parishioners very friendly and hospitable. But I want to encourage all of you, especially in this Harvest season, to be deliberately welcoming to the many who will attend St. John's for the first time in the weeks ahead.

First, I want you to be aware that on November 9 we will have special signage and assistance to help our guests find their way around. Parishioners have volunteered to assist in parking cars and directing guests to the ushers' station. Greeters and ushers will be especially mindful of attending to newcomers' questions: "Where is the nursery?" "Where are the restrooms?" And bulletins for November 9 will be especially user-friendly.

Next, I want to ask you to please be aware of any guests that might be around you during the service on Harvest Sunday. Be willing to lend a hand if someone needs help; perhaps a mother may decide she wants to take her child to the nursery halfway through the service; some visitorsmight find the kneeling, standing, and other ceremonies intimidating. Just be aware of folks around you, letting them know that you are willing to lend a hand and that no one is judging their performance.

Also, please introduce yourself to someone that day. Shake a newcomer's hand. Welcome him or her to St. John's. Tell folks how long you've been attending and what you love about this church.

Lastly, I want you to know that on November 9 we will have a special luncheon for our guests. My two years at St. John's has impressed upon me that you are a group of folks who like to eat. So I need to say it: please do not come to the reception! This is a special one-time event where newcomers can be welcomed in a comfortable, non-overwhelming setting in order to get to know the clergy and the parish. God willing, you'll have plenty of time to party with these folks in the days to come.

It's going to be a great day, and this may be (as many of the Harvest callers and prayers have told me) the most important thing our parish has done. I pray that God might use us in a mighty way for his kingdom.

Faithfully yours in Christ,