HOSPITALITY

Hospitality is not just another program at Stanwich – it is the very essence of Christian community.  The message  “you are welcome here, because God loves you” is a part of everything that happens in our church. 

Every member of Stanwich is a part of this ministry, whether in a formal or

informal capacity.  Many opportunities to serve are available, in various degrees

of commitment. 

Greeters

The church greeters are the first people worshippers see when they enter the sanctuary for morning worship.  A warm handshake and a friendly smile mean

so much, especially to visitors!  This is a wonderful opportunity for families to

serve together since children are welcome to participate with their parents.

Greeters are asked to arrive at church 15 minutes before the service begins,

and to greet everyone as they arrive. 

Coffee Hour Host

Everyone loves coffee hour!  Hosting this wonderful fellowship time is a blessing

for everyone, and children love to be involved. 

For the 9 a.m. service, the host is sent directions early in the week with a

suggested food list.  The host sets up the food in Emmaus Hall before the

service.  Coffee is prepared by a separate coffee volunteer.  After coffee hour

is over, the host cleans up and sets up the remaining food for the 10:45 a.m.

coffee hour. 

For the 10:45 a.m. service, usually one or two additional volunteers clean up

after the coffee hour is over. 

For the Evensong service, volunteers are needed to set up, prepare salad and

heat food before and during the service, and also to clean up afterwards.     

Coffee Hour Ambassador

This person is responsible for welcoming people to coffee hour and providing

them with name tags. 

Coffee Hour Shepherds

This ministry involves attending coffee hour and watching out for visitors or others who may not know anyone.  The shepherd’s role includes staffing the Welcome Center during coffee hour, talking to visitors and newcomers, and introducing them

to other people. 

Bread Ministry

The Bread Ministry is one way we symbolically share the good news that Jesus

is the Bread of Life with newcomers to our church.  Volunteers bake fresh bread

and deliver it to first-time visitors along with a note from the Stanwich family. 

You can deliver in your area of town during the day or evening depending upon

your schedule.

Pew Shepherds

Many people tend to sit in about the same area of the church every Sunday. 

Pew Shepherds are members of the church who attend regularly and are

acquainted with many of the people in “their” area.  Pew Shepherds greet visitors

and invite them to coffee hour, perhaps call people who have been missing from service, or follow up with someone who seems emotionally touched during the service.

Parking Lot Shepherds

The purpose of this ministry is to have friendly people in the parking lot

ready to help people who may need it, provide umbrella shelter when raining,

and extend the church’s welcome to the outdoors!

To volunteer or obtain more information, please contact the church office or one

of our ministry leaders.