St Peter’s, Richmond may have initiated the ninth annual combined Hawkesbury churches ‘Show Outreach’ this year, but each church lent their own expertise in meeting the community ‘on their turf’.
The show ran for three days and two nights, with people power and resources being well used, said team leader and lay member of St Peter’s, Tony Hilsden. “Prayers were answered and many opportunities arose,” Mr Hilsden said.
“We have tried many and various activities to draw and hold a crowd, and to enable a Christian message to go out. We engaged with people on a one on one basis as they did craft activities, or enjoyed a cuppa and free cake,” he said.
A target of the outreach effort has always been been the Entertainment Guild or ‘Show People’, who over the last nine years have learned to trust the team and share their personal experiences. This is achieved through personal visitation and by entertaining their children with activities for much of the show.
“A large, open marquee is set up at the show, which provides shade and a place for people to sit down, have a drink and enjoy activities, such as plaster painting which the children enjoy,” Mr Hilsden said. “This gives ample opportunity to initiate conversations with parents about youth groups, fellowship, and personal concerns with their faith and the church.”
Mr Hilsden said the team has found that people were open and shared personal issues, which presented opportunities for follow up.
“The team needs to focus on maximising opportunities that provoke thought and a response,” Mr Hilsden says. The churches use the ‘Two Ways to Live’ evangelistic resource to minister to individuals at the show.
“Otherwise you are providing a service which is greatly appreciated, but does not create an environment for God’s Spirit to save souls.”