Living Stones

The Stranger Effect by Ken Perry

I  came across this great 3 minute video from Igniter Media called Strangers (check it out here at www.ignitermedia.com/mini-movies/2201/Strangers)-- and it illustrates the impact that individuals have over people they will never meet.  This happens every day -- and for good or bad we have an influence that echoes in the lives of others.

What can we do as parish communities to echo the Gospel in our wider communities?   Is it getting involved in community actives that benefit those outside our churches?  Crafting a mission statement so the direction of the parish is clear?  Stepping out in faith and doing something nice for a neighbor who wouldn't give us the time of day?  Making a real effort to be wise stewards of parish resources?   Welcoming in families, widows and orphans in an intentional way? 

Giving away your space by Ken Perry

 I came across this excellent post from marketer/author Andy Sernovitz.  It's about companies (see churches) using their extra space for marketing purposes by allowing groups to using the space.  It's a great way for companies to be helpful  and reach out to groups in their communities --and sell some extra stuff in the process.

It got me thinking, what if we applied this to our parish facilities?   What if our stance to the community at large was one of openness and hospitality?  Wouldn't that be a great way to show love for our neighbor and build relationships at the same time? 

This especially applies to those groups which serve others in our community.  I know there are a number of churches allowing groups to use their facilities already (e.g. boy scouts, 12-step groups, etc.) --but what would it look like if we invited people to book time (for free). Even if your parish is short on space (as some are), what about offering your grounds?  Your parking lot?

I don't pretend that there's not an obvious cost.  There are certain liability and damage issues that need to be addressed.  In some cases a certificate of insurance would be needed by the participating group.  I would argue that the cost of inaction is far greater.

What would the effect on how our parish community sees your parish?  What kind of bridges might it build?  What effect would it have on members of our own parish?

 

Why They Left by Ken Perry

America Magazine recently highlighted a study commissioned by Bishop David O'Connell asking Catholics why they stopped going to church (see the article here -Why They Left). 

The responses included not feeling welcomed, starved spiritually, to feeling undervalued by the church.  Others point to issues of doctrine and church practice.   All of the respondents remind us of the stark reality of declining church attendance, with fewer than 20% of registered Catholics attending Mass.  But there is hope and promise here, as their tone was generally positive. 

We have before our parish communities a great opportunity, if we are up to the challenge.  In light of these responses, Byron and Zech call for a "creative liturgical, pastoral, doctrinal and practical response".  Will we choose to remain in dialog with these Catholics in our parish boundaries even if the issue is a doctrinal one in order to remain in relationship?

So then, what will our response be?  In what ways is God calling us as Catholics, and Catholic communities, to reach out to those inactive Catholics in our own backyard?  What has been working so far and is a strength we can build on?  Where is their opportunity for growth to build up the kingdom of God in your community?