Commission on Evangelization

How to Open Your Parish Community to Others

By Kathy O'Brien

There is no better way to open the parish community to others than the old fashioned potluck supper, said Kathy O’Brien, Glenmary Lay Missioner from Immaculate Conception in Pulaski, Tenn., during her presentation at the Commission on Evangelization’s spring 2002 meeting. She went on to present an array of do’s and don’ts that any parish/person can use to evaluate just how open their community is to others.

Her discussion began with the New Testament story of the woman at the well. “People are seeking and they need a role and a place to be accepted,” Kathy said. "Watch for any signals that give the impression that our communities are closed.”

Parish ushers should recognize signs that people are uncomfortable, and they should encourage other parishioners or RCIA members to welcome newcomers and make them feel comfortable. This type of inclusion should be seen as ministry, Kathy explained.
In discussing Goal II of the U.S. bishop’s document "Go and Make Disciples," Kathy made the following points:

• What I say, what I do and how I act will be constantly observed.
• Being Catholic in the South is being a “public Catholic."
• Do I project an image of happiness when I go to church?
• Notice the people you meet and humbly do small acts of kindness for them.
• Your social activities such as bowling and dining with others can become a far greater witness than just church attendance.
• Remember you are never off duty! You are always an EVANGELIZER!

“It is important not to be shy about asking others in the local community to come and experience the parish. Often times, children get the best response when asking adults to come to church,” Kathy remarked.

Other suggestions for evangelizing included the following points:
• Be welcoming of the stranger who feels on the margins of the parish.
• Be sensitive to the way of invitation. Parishioners should be friendly toward newcomers.
• All Catholics should develop the “invitation mode” of behavior toward newcomers.
• Strive to get people grounded in the parish so they will remain faithful to the Church.

Which of the above evangelizing suggestions are already happening in your parish?

Please Share Your 'Idea That Works': If you have an evangelization idea that works, please share it with Glenmary's evangelization consultant, Lorraine Vancamp.

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