We are developing an Evangelism Team at St. Stephen's, Allen Park, Michigan, and I thought a review of our efforts might be helpful for others who are doing the same or hope to do the same. Moreover, we could use your wisdom.
In 2020, just before the pandemic got into gear (what was that all about?), Father John RP Russell and Father Deacon Lawrence Hendricks invited us to be their Director of Evangelization. I remained in the position for a year, but my wife's health was pulling me in too many directions, so I stepped down. Another member, Vic, and I formed a team. Here are some of the highlights of these last few years and what we project for 2025.
1. Planned a trip to Israel, which fell through because most of the world's activities shut down.
2. Conducted a "Spiritual Gifts Analysis" for 30 members.
3. Did some door-to-door calling despite the "pandemic" and did some street evangelization in downtown Allen Park.
4. Filmed interviews with most of the 24 members under 30 and posted them online.
5. In 2022, I oversaw a booth at the Allen Park Street Fair.
6. In 2023 and 2024, the Street Fair participation was expanded to Wyandotte and Allen Park.
7. This year, we plan to expand the Street Fairs to a third site in Trenton.
8. This year, we plan to interview many of our long-term members about the events and changes in the parish throughout our history.
9. We will expand the number of Greeters who welcome all visitors to the Church by inviting them to sign our guest book and are given a chotki as a gift from the Church. All guests are added to our growing email list. They receive the latest news about the Church every week.
10. The team will provide most of the planning and work concerning our seventieth Anniversary.
Personally, at 78, I'm thankful to God for this chance to work in a lively parish.
Carson Daniel Lauffer
