Dear Family of St John’s
Have you ever been in conversation with someone you’re meeting for the first time and, as the conversation progresses, you realise that you actually know so-and-so’s aunt’s friend’s niece who went to school with your second-cousin, and you were all at the second-cousin’s 5th party way back in the day? Or something like that!
I love those conversations. Seeing the connections that we all have. I have come to realise over my time in ordained ministry how many of our church families are connected, within specific parishes or across Port Elizabeth.
Feeling connected is important – no one is an island after all. But, how do you establish those connections if you’re new – to a town, a school, a church… to St John’s? Or, maybe you’ve been coming to church for a while but you still don’t really know anyone too well?
Some of our parishioners stepped out of their comfort zones this last Sunday to do just that, establish new connections and friendships with people they possibly didn’t know. Or, if they had met before to deepen those connections.
I’m talking about our Guess Who’s Coming to Lunch initiative. A friend from another church in PE shared this idea with me last year, and I thought it sounded fabulous. When we spoke about it as leadership at St John’s we weren’t too sure how it would all turn out but decided to give it a try.
“WOW!” That was a word used in a WhatsApp I received from one of the guests last Sunday. The host couple didn’t know them at all, the other couple attending this lunch only vaguely knew the guests. It sounds like it could be quite awkward, right? Well, it apparently only took a few minutes for everyone to settle in and feel right at home. The guest who messaged me said that they left lunch having made four new friends.
And, this sentiment was echoed in each of the people who gave me feedback. It was certainly my experience in the lunch I attended. It was so lovely to share a meal together, chat about everything and nothing, and get to know each other better. Our table shared so many laughs – not to mention the fabulous food!
It’s these kinds of moments that highlight the true value of community. The simple act of coming together over food or conversation can create lasting bonds that go far beyond that one event. Being part of a church family offers us the opportunity to support one another, share in life’s joys and challenges, and walk alongside each other in faith.
That’s why getting involved in parish activities like the upcoming Roof, Rolls & Reels weekend, or the Shrove Tuesday fellowship can be a wonderful way to meet others and establish those connections.
It’s not only about the big events, but connections are also formed when you come to coffee after a service on Wednesday or Sunday. Why not sit at a different table and invite someone you don’t know to join you?
These events are not just about the activities themselves, but about the people we meet, the relationships we build, and the way we come together as the body of Christ.
The importance of connecting with one another can’t be overstated. In Hebrews 10:24-25, we are reminded to “spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another.”
Our church family is meant to be a support system, a place where we can find encouragement, comfort, and strength. That happens best when we already have a relationship with each other. Participating in parish events offers a wonderful opportunity to engage with one another outside of the regular Wednesday or Sunday service and develop deeper connections. These activities create spaces for fellowship and growth.
Moreover, engaging with others in the church community helps us build a stronger sense of belonging, a vital aspect of spiritual growth. When we come together, we reflect the beauty of the early church described in Acts 2:46-47, where “they broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favour of all the people.”
It’s through these shared experiences that we build meaningful relationships and become a support system for each other. There are so many opportunities for you to come along and meet other people. It might require you to step out of that comfort zone a little, but it won’t take long to find a connection and feel right at home.
May we continue to build our community, strengthen our bonds, and grow together in faith and friendship.
With love
Your friend and rector,
Claire