Report on the Volunteers and Idea Survey
Greetings fellow parishioners. During the summer of 2022, facing multiple transitions in clergy and staff, St. Martin’s undertook a parish-wide survey to solicit ideas for greater parishioner involvement in a range of new and existing activities. 48 people signed up to be Volunteers and many of you have been called and volunteered this fall. Thanks so much for completing the survey, helping with parish needs, and providing ideas for improving aspects of the ministries and programs here at St. Martin’s.
There will be an adult forum held in January to review the intriguing ideas put forward.
The range of ideas connected to the following 6 categories:
1. More Social Events and programs – afternoon teas, LGBTQ gatherings, rotating supper groups, ice-cream/popsicle parties, intergenerational game nights, happy hours, ‘Meet-ups’ and matching for connecting for themed events/gatherings like hiking, antique shopping, dog walks, etc.
2. Small groups for gathering, support, community, and deepening faith – home covenant and prayer groups, newcomer groups, neighborhood groups, spiritual gift gatherings, Boost (new type of recovery/support program), holy spirit story sharing, and Weekly affirmations - find a community member, a different one each week, and give them a positive/spiritual affirmation
3. Sharing our history – tours after church services once a month, gatherings to share important stories of people and events, oral histories of past legends to inspire, sharing of lessons learned and good happenings in other churches across the country
4. Educational programs of many kinds – Covid updates and Q&A, discussions on racism, daytime book group using spiritually-oriented books, marriage prep, explanations on process of transition and calling a new priest,
5. Direct support - Designated huggers and community members (Covid safe) who volunteer to give hugs to those who want/need them, Baking for people in memory care facilities (and bringing over the treats!), Strategize cooperation with Face to Face for social service needs of the church and community
6. Additional types of worship opportunities – contemplative prayer noonday services, more Sunday evening services,
There were also many positive comments reinforcing the host of programs that are ongoing and growing. Stay tuned for the announcement of the date in January for the Adult Forum on these and more ideas to come.
Faithfully,
Jim Littrell, your new Interim Rector
David Collins, Facilitator
Tags: Community Engagement
