Parish OfficeSeptember 28th was Back to Church Sunday At Saint Wilfrid's
Everyone was invited to join the congregation of Saint Wilfrid’s Church on Sunday September 28th.
The people of Saint Wilfrid's were delighted to welcome guests and newcomers to Saint Wilfrid's on 'Back to Church Sunday.' There was a good congregation and many people stayed after Mass for a glass of wine and some lunch.
A scout-staffed BBQ was sold out and many people enjoyed sandwiches and cake in the hall. Local people and visitors joined in a tour of Saint Wilfrid's, a demonstration by bell ringers and viewed exhibitions of vestments and plate. We concluded with Solemn Evensong sung by the choir of St Wilfrid's.
Fr Mark, Fr John, Fr Tim & Fr Terry were pleased to have the opportunity for conversation with newcomers and visitors and promise a continued welcome for those who would like to know more about the life and worship of Saint Wilfrid's and of the church as a whole. They are all happy to be contacted by 'phone or by email.
A Note from Father Mark
All research tells us that the most effective way of bringing people (back) to church is to do it by personal invitation. We used September 28th as a special day of invitation to people to join us in worship at Saint Wilfrid’s
We asked everyone to do one of the following to help someone you know return to the life of the Christian Church. They may or may not have been worshipers at St Wilfrid’s in the past.
- Use a printed invitation slip to invite a friend or neighbour to church.
- Write a personal card or letter of invitation to bring a friend or neighbour to church
- Issue an invitation by word or mouth.
- Use your mobile ‘phone to text an invitation to Saint Wilfrid’s.
- Use Email to issue invitations to friends and neighbours
The idea was to invite and encourage back to church anyone who has left or drifted away for any reason. We offered an especially warm welcome to people returning to church that day and encouraged them to come again.
The idea was not to do everything differently, but simply to make a concerted effort to do things well and to make especially welcome any who come along.
Best wishes,
Fr Mark