Friendly Evangelism

We have just entered into the season of Pentecost. It is a seaon in which we are called upon to bring new people into the Church, to bring new people into the community. So here in the spirit of Pentecost is a story about Evangelism, and how it can truly happen anywhere.

This past Sunday, Pentecost Sunday, I went to Church of the Epiphany East Providence to preach. I was a littl eon the nervous side as my new Priest-In-Charge just left that parish. But, the people were great and excited for Christ Church (my parish). My sermon and the 8 o'clock service went great.

In between the two services their rector, Jennifer, took myself, and another young man out to breakfast at Friendly's. We all had two scarmbled eggs and toast - in other words we were all boring. Well towards the end of the meal, Jennifer got up from the table for a few moments, and Matt and I were sitting there. Our waitress came over to us and asked Matt what Rite 13 was (he had a name tag on that said ask me about Rite 13). He told her about the program, and then she asked some questions about the Episcopal Church. We talked for a few moments, then Jennifer came back. Before we knew it she was asking Jennifer for contact information for Church of the Epiphany.

Over breakfast we had done exactly what the season calls us to do. We spread Christ's message, and hopefully brought someone new into the Church community.

May the day of Pentecost and the gifts of the Holy Spirit be a reminder for us all day after day of what being members of the Church community is all about.