I did something a little unusual (for me) at the 11:15 a.m. service a couple of Sundays ago. I asked the congregation to look around and to smile. I asked them to introduce themselves to anyone they did not know -- "Hello, my name is John Kitagawa, I don't think I know you." (Of course, after the service, several witty people greeted me at the door -- "Hello, my name is John Kitagawa, I don't think I know you.")

I did this because I noticed a lot of unfamiliar faces at this service -- some couples, some individuals, and a number of families. We are definitely in "Church shopping" season. Back East, this does not happen until after Labor Day, but here with schools opening in early August, the rhythms of life are different.

We have great music, beautiful liturgies and thoughtful preaching. We have meaningful programs and many ways to serve. Ultimately, the decision to join, participate, and incorporate will depend on human relationships. Every one of us can make a difference in this regard. Smile and introduce yourself. I think the studies show that if a guest leaves knowing three names, there is a good possibility they will come back, at least for a second look. If you discover a guest's interest and you can help connect them to a parishioner or program, please do so. If there is an appropriate opening, share your experience of St. Philip's. Maybe you will meet a long-term parishioner ... on the other hand, perhaps a guest at St. Philip's will feel more welcome because you made the effort to connect with them.

Seeing and meeting families can be a critical factor for a church-shopping family. So, families with children and high schoolers, please be there on Sundays to be part of St. Philip's welcoming team.

Registration for our Children and Youth ministries is taking place this month. Forms are available at the 10:15 hour in both the Children's Center and the Teen Center -- there are activities for children each Sunday, and the youth spaces are available for you to hang out and get to know each other. Registration forms are also posted online.

For a number of years, the second Sunday of September has been our parish "Welcome Sunday," a time to greet each other and welcome new people to our community. However, we so enjoyed seeing old friends after the summer that prospective new members were a little intimidated. Thus, we decided this fall to split the event.

Homecoming Sunday, on Sunday, September 9, will feature gatherings in the Murphey Gallery between the 7:45 and 9 a.m. and the 9 and 11:15 a.m. services. This "expanded coffee hour" will include coffee, chat, and potluck light snacks and a chance to enjoy reconnecting with friends.

We will have a Ministry Fair on Sunday, October 7, from 8 a.m. until 1 p.m., called "Open House, Open Doors, Open Hearts." This will give our ministries a little more time to prepare and all of us an opportunity to practice "invitational hospitality." Think about the people you know -- at work, school, children's play groups, or other activities, neighbors, or even family members -- who might find meaning and joy in Christ's beloved community, specifically St. Philip's. Invite them to come with you on Sunday, October 7 (or sooner, but especially that date). Send them to the web site to begin learning about who we are and the ways we serve each other and the community around us.

Please see more details in the weeks to come.

Let's get this new program year off to a great start! Thank you!

Faithfully,
The Rev. John E. Kitagawa, D.Min., Rector