By Kirsten Radivoyevitch, Member Engagement Coordinator

Dear Friends,

T.J. Freeman will be joining us as our new rector for the first time on Sunday, September 7. The entire Freeman family might be viewed as guests of honor upon their arrival to St. Paul’s. We have been expecting them and have already gotten a glimpse into who they are.

We have seen their photo and watched T.J.’s video of introduction. Even before meeting T.J., I felt like I knew enough about him to have a meaningful conversation on a number of topics: the local schools the children will be attending, the area in which they purchased a home, their life in Pittsburgh and Fort Wayne, T.J.’s military service, Annie’s profession as a medical physics CFO, etc.

Their smiling faces in the photo lead me to think that such conversations would flow easily, especially given the fact that they have already made a commitment to St. Paul’s before entering the door.

Now let’s consider that T.J. and his family will also be visitors at St. Paul’s on Kick-Off Sunday, September 7. I challenge you to reflect on what makes their situation different from that of others who experience our worshipping community for the first time:

• What impact do those differences have on your sense of community?

• How do they affect your interactions?

• What changes can you consciously make to show a more welcoming spirit to everyone you meet in the pews, at coffee hour, on the playground?

We all want to get better acquainted with the Freemans, especially since they have already pledged to be an integral part of our community for years to come. That being the case, I offer you a challenge: Along with meeting the Freemans, show the same warm welcome to someone else whom you don’t know. Not just during the passing of the peace, but for a two- or three-minute conversation.

If you need an opening line, how about something like, “What brings you to St. Paul’s on this first Sunday with a new rector?”

With warmth,

Kirsten Radivoyevitch, Member Engagement Coordinator