Having real, authentic, pervasive influence in a community takes time, but it is worth it. Read what Phil Wyman writes about partnering with the community in a way that builds trust and opens the door for future service.

On July 17th, 2006 at 3:03 pm Phil Wyman said,

In our city of Salem, MA we attempt to network with the community by offering our services at city events. We painted children’s faces for the 4th of July fireworks. We will bring extra chairs, perhaps a sound system and music, and tents for the Chowder Fest, and Ice Cream “Scooperbowl.” When Hallloween comes we will provide seven days of free live music, and give away 10,000 cups of hot cocoa. By making ourselves available to serve the community, we now sit in on the board which helps organize Haunted Happenings (the Halloween events.) People don’t wonder any longer what a church is doing here, because they’ve seen us around for a number of years. Now they call us if they could use some help with their events.

Art Salem will be doing an art exhibit in our facility. We will provide music and hot cocoa when the Christmas trees are piled into a big bonfire on the beach, and we may be helping a wax museum run a street fair by offering free Dream Interpretation.

If your city has public events which could use some help to make them run smoother, be more fun, or require volunteer laborers - join in and offer to do anything you can. At first they wonder if you have a hidden agenda, but if you can prove that you do not - that you simply want to serve it will eventually make way for you.

How has your church partnered unconditionally with your community? How has the community responded, and what new doors have opened for you?