St. James Glastonbury

Volunteers are trained to welcome people to the worship services.  Thanks to the Radical Hospitality group we have added a lot of new people to this ministry.  The Radical Hospitality group has trained over 20 people to be usher/greeter.  Their role is to welcome, distribute bulletins, help with name tags, pass the collection plates, and guide people attending communion.

This group has established a cycle of welcoming guests who are attending services or St James events for the first time.  As one of the first touches, welcome bags have been created to be given to each visitor.   Rev. Paul has created a cycle of how Newcomers will be reached out to in their weeks after their visit.
This committee also invites new 30 new families to come together for a Newcomer’s Luncheon.  We identified the Newcomers with the help of the clergy and sent out invites to newcomers and their families.  At the luncheons, newcomers get to know each other, and have the opportunity to ask questions and participate in a tour of the building.

Each month, usually the first Sunday evening of every month is a potluck supper.  Everyone brings a dish to enjoy.   There is always an abundance of great food and conversation.  Pot Luck suppers are a great way for young and old to enjoy a meal together.    Often a committee sponsors the supper, and provides dessert and a short program.   Check the calendar for the dates and more details of the planned events.

Over 10 groups of eight to ten adults meet in homes in a rotating way from January – April. This is a pure fellowship activity to help people get to know each other socially.  Look for a sign-up sheet in the foyer or call the church office for more details on how to become involved.

This group is made up of all women.  Central to the group are the monthly Soup Luncheons which happen the first Thursday of every month at noon  from September through June. 
Women’s retreats, Epiphany Teas, evening programs, involvement with the Diocesan ECW are also activities that are held by the ECW.  The ECW also participates in some outreach including an annual birthday party for the residents of Naubac Green.

Coffee hour happens after the 8am and 10:15 services on Sunday. Coffee,tea, and juice with a snack is served.   This is an important St. James tradition were people share their thoughts on the sermon, relate what happened in their week, or connect with newcomers.   A list of 20 volunteer families is rotated throughout the year to provide snacks and prepare, clean up and serve.