We're invited to our friend's church picnic this Sunday. How could I say no? A picnic builds deeper relationships in a relaxed environment, outside the formal walls of a building. Members and newcomers come together and feel a sense of community outside a structured service. We share meals, adults and children play games together, and strangers become friends through a simple introduction or casual conversation. Social barriers come down.
We're not members of the church ourselves, but we have many friends who attend. In the past, I've volunteered my time to help with the spring bazaar fundraiser, and the proceeds have helped pay for a picnic that will bring together close to 700 attendees this year.
I'm looking forward to helping with monthly bingo nights to raise funds for a new building. While my own religious affiliation may be different, I enjoy helping others, making new friends, and building relationships with people who understand that a church, at its best, is a place for people to come together.