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When a new family registers
from your neighborhood we send you the contact information as well as
the newcomer package.
We ask that you call on the new family, present them with the Newcomer
packet and introduce the parish.
The visit should be made within one week of receiving the packet.
After the call is completed please return the notification sheet to the
parish office with any comments as appropriate.
Consider praying before the call. Ask God to be with you that you may be
welcoming and instill a sense that the parish is glad that the new
family is part of our community.
Be yourself. Be genuine.
The purpose of the visit is to meet and welcome the family. This is not
a time to recruit for the church ministries or for jobs in the
neighborhood association.
Find out what needs they may have-sacraments, transportation,
information about the parish or neighborhood.
They may have children who would benefit from being given names of those
with similar ages or interests.
See if the family has any questions about the parish. Don’t be afraid of
not having all the answers. You can always get back with them.
Many ministers take a small welcome gift with them on the visit such as
bread, cookies, a prayer card, etc.
Offer to meet the family for mass and sit together. After mass, go with
them to the commons for coffee and donuts and introduce them to others
from the parish.
Don’t overstay your visit. Usually the visit will take place at the door
or in the yard.
Be sure to follow up on any questions.
Give the family a Newcomer packet. Put your name and number on the
packet so that they can call you if they have any questions.
Neighborhood Contacts will also be notified when people are moving
within the parish. This is an opportunity for you to get acquainted with
a new neighbor. Since they already know about St. John’s simply
introducing yourself is all that is needed.
After the visit report to Deacon Peterson that the visit has been made.
This can be done by e-mail to
Gary’s E-mail or by returning the contact sheet by mail to the
parish.
Consider a follow up note expressing your pleasure in meeting them and
having them in you neighborhood. It would be great if these notes came
from other families in the neighborhood parish. |
