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The Election over – we must settle into working with and praying for the newly elected Government whatever its final composition.
We pray that there will be a generosity of spirit exhibited by all involved in the political process. Recrimination does not provide ground for healing, forgiveness and new beginnings.
We, more than most in our society, know this to be true. We have been reconciled to God through Christ by a love that is beyond all imagining. If we do not make this truth known to others we will ourselves lag in zeal and purpose.
“Back to Church Sunday” on 12 September provides an opportunity for us to invite friend and neighbour, work, school or club mate to accompany us to the place where the story of God’s transformation is proclaimed in Word and Sacrament, and to introduce those whom we pray for to the community we call Church. We claim audaciously to be those whose core purpose is to worship God in Christ and in the power of the Spirit to share Christ’s radical love with the world, building communities of hope, healing and transformation.
But how are they to call on one in whom they have not believed? And how are they to believe in one of whom they have never heard? And how are they to hear without someone to proclaim him? And how are they to proclaim him unless they are sent? As it is written, ‘How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!’ (Romans 10:14-15)
The Most Reverend Roger Herft
Archbishop
Top 10 steps to a mutually life-transforming Back to Church Sunday
1 Pray regularly that God will bless and draw people to Himself through this initiative.
2 Appoint a leader in your parish to oversee a team of enthusiasts to plan the day.
3 Set the vision of Back to Church Sunday with parishioners by using segments of the promotional DVD.
4 Run a parish workshop and use the workshop to make necessary improvements.
5 Mobilise your church to be praying for those who they will inviting to BTCS.
6 Lead by example in sharing regularly who you are praying for and inviting to BTCS.
7 Celebrate when you know of invitations being extended.
8 Publicise that BTCS is near.
Download resources from www.backtochurchsunday.com.au (sermons, media releases, top tips).
9 Personal Invitation is what BTCS is all about, ‘a friend inviting a friend’ back to church. Give invitations out as soon as possible.
10 Plan the services for the day and be sure to train your welcomers. They are your greatest resource for a warm welcome.