We’re trying something new this summer: lay-led, informal social gatherings to create connections through play. Like an experiment, we’re going to test it as the summer goes on to see what works and what we might try differently next summer.
Why?
· HBC’s Strategic Plan: Highland’s recently developed strategic plan identifies the need for lay-led structures to build a more robust community inside and outside the walls.
· Power of Play: From my years in youth ministry, I’ve learned that one of the best ways to foster a sense of community and belonging is to play together. Catherine Price says “true fun” comes from three elements: playfulness (not taking yourself too seriously), connection (sharing an experience with others), and flow (getting completely lost in the moment).
· Summer Schedules: During the church season, when our Wednesday night programming pauses, we’ve got more flexibility to identify many different ways to connect.
How?
Why?
· HBC’s Strategic Plan: Highland’s recently developed strategic plan identifies the need for lay-led structures to build a more robust community inside and outside the walls.
· Power of Play: From my years in youth ministry, I’ve learned that one of the best ways to foster a sense of community and belonging is to play together. Catherine Price says “true fun” comes from three elements: playfulness (not taking yourself too seriously), connection (sharing an experience with others), and flow (getting completely lost in the moment).
· Summer Schedules: During the church season, when our Wednesday night programming pauses, we’ve got more flexibility to identify many different ways to connect.
How?
- A layperson (either individually or with a partner) identifies an activity they’d like to host. Write a short description of the activity.
- Pick one date and a rain-backup date that work for you. Email Cheryl Davis to verify whether that works with the church calendar.
- Identify the following:
- Any equipment and/or experience that will be needed, whether equipment will be provided, and whether instruction will be available for people wanting to learn.
- If you need a sign-up deadline because your activity requires advance planning (such as pairing for a game), set the deadline.
- If there is an age limit, we will note that anyone under 12 must have a parent present to participate.
- If there is a cost for participants.
- Email Cheryl the short description, date (and rain-backup date), details, and contact information.