“We want to celebrate the past, live in the present, and step into the future… the Reformation is a time we look back in order to move forward” says Pastor Tim Bayer of St. Mark’s, St. Charles.
When Pastor Bayer and Pastor Eric Kennaugh of Immanuel, Batavia were discussing their individual Reformation Day plans and the message which encapsulates the day, God’s grace and mission, which are for everyone everywhere, coming together for a Reformation celebration which meets the community where they “live, work, and play” became an apparent next step. Soon, nearly 1000 community members would join them for their inaugural Blocktober festival.
It was quickly decided to hold the event in a central place, which people might happen across unintentionally. Megan Popp, Immanuel’s Director of Community Connections says it’s much less intimidating for community members, especially those without church backgrounds, to attend an event and build relationships which will lead them to church than it is for them to come to a service. When churches partner, they’re even more approachable, Popp says, “when people see the churches working together it gives a much more authentic feel.”
For their Reformation celebration, Popp and St. Mark’s Worship and Community Engagement Director Tim Johnson worked together to think through the day’s activities. They rented the historic Arcada Theater, a staple in the heart of downtown St. Charles, for a joint, celebratory service on Sunday, October 29. After the service, the city of St. Charles helped block off the street on the side of the theater for a free party complete with bounce houses, a magician, food vendors, and a Trunk or Treat, which not only provided fun for children but created an opportunity for the congregations’ members to serve. With the intention of “bringing everyone together,” posters and flyers were hung up all around the community advertising for the event.
The day was a success; the Word of the Lord was shared, two congregations were able to come together in service, and hundreds of people came out to commemorate the Reformation.
Popp and Johnson shared words of advice to churches considering partnerships, saying, “go outside your church walls, don’t wait for them to come to you” and above all, the two stressed “keep his mission at the forefront; stay focused where God’s calling you… go do ministry.”