A summer welcome

With temps in the upper 90s and the heat index (impacted by the humidity) at 100, the Memphis community where I live is officially into summer, even if the calendar hasn't quite made it yet. Summertime often means vacations or long week-ends, family fun in the national parks or on the rivers and lakes of the country.

But churches frequently experience summer as a "down" time in terms of weekly attendance, financial support and other activities. Despite the energy and interest in VBS, church camping, mission trips and retreats, summers are sometimes tough for congregations. In the face of the anticipated summer slump, some congregations essentially throw up their hands and don't attempt to do much. If we do that, we may miss a significant opportunity for welcoming new community residents.

In her e-newsletter "Awesome Insight," Lynette Hawkins notes: "Each summer millions of people relocate to new communities for new job opportunities, family, better schools, etc. Although the number of people relocating was down to 11.9% in 2008 versus 13.5% in 2007 (according to US Census data), more than 35 million people relocated. Moving before school starts is very popular. New people may be moving in your neighborhood this week. Will your congregation make room to welcome?" (www.awesomeinsight.com)

While we're enjoying summer, we still want to be alert to opportunities to show hospitality to those who may not -- as yet -- have found a spiritual home.