Unlocking Door-to-Door Success
New England Church Life
Before you write off door-to-door calling as intrusive or too scary, consider the experience of Brookville Baptist Church in Holbrook, Massachusetts. For the past seven summers they've run a town-wide program that has made friends, not enemies, and has brought new people into the church.
Two keys are:
• Sending an advance letter to the home that says someone will be stopping by with a complimentary copy of one of the four gospels. "You must tell people ahead of time what is expected of them," says Pastor James Eubanks, who spent seven years in business before entering this pastorate. "A letter makes all the difference. Instead of being surprised or affronted, people welcome this gift."
• Taking advantage of hot weather (especially in New England, where air conditioning is less than universal). "For years our best evangelism has been during the summer," says Eubanks. "People are more receptive. They're out on their porches or the lawn, more willing to talk. The hotter the better."
Inviting children to Vacation Bible School is especially fruitful, according to the Brookville callers. "When it's hot, people want to give you their kids for a couple of hours—even atheists," says the pastor.
"We have to bring direct action back into the church. We have to go public with the gospel." Door-to-door calling, apparently, is one such method that isn't worn out yet.
Like the preview? To read this complete article
and 20,359 more in the archive—JOIN NOW!
Easily find high-quality, well-researched materials that provide a Christian perspective on topics ranging from headlines to history.
Start using this invaluable tool TODAY for preparing your Bible studies, presentations, class lectures, sermons, meetings, and more.
|
It's easy and quick to join:
Brought to You by Christianity Today Int'l |  |
|
| 
Find similar articles
E-mail this page
