Summers in Minnesota are incredible and there is nothing like them. Between the weekends at the cabin, music festivals, late night patio seating at your favorite pub/restaurant, and exploring all our city has to offer, it is one of the best times of year that school kids and adults alike look forward to.
And even though summers may look different (youth will soon be off of school, most of us will take vacations, we move to just one service on Sundays starting June 9th, Community Groups and HLI take a break, etc.), Hiawatha Church’s mission (and our mission as an extension) of making disciples continues. Pastor Chris reminded us this past Sunday of the importance of being on mission together and how that demonstrates the gospel and also the nature of our God (who himself is trinity, an eternal community).
Below are some ideas for us as individuals, community groups, families, or as a church to be strategic as we live on mission this summer. Minnesotans come out of hibernating, yards are full of neighbors, students aren’t in classes, and the lakes, parks, and streets are full of people. Think of what you’re already doing (gardening, concerts, kids’ sports, vacation, etc.) and intentionally look for ways to build relationships with those around you. “Be very careful, then, how you live – not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity” -Ephesians 5:15-16.
Hiawatha Church, let’s be used by Jesus this summer!
First, join your church family in prayer. As we desire to see our city transformed with the gospel, we start with prayer. Pray for more conversions, for God to use us and bless our neighborhood and city, for current and future church plants, and for mission in general.
Host a neighborhood BBQ: invite those you know and use this as an easy excuse to show hospitality and meet neighbors you haven’t yet.
Get or make a fire pit: invite people over to make smores and have great conversations deep into the night.
Holidays/Celebrations: host a party or get together with a group of friends to attend one of our many summer festivities: 4th of July, National Night Out, Longfellow Corn Feed, State Fair, Open Streets, outdoor movies, and countless festivals, concerts, and activities across the city.
Sign your kid(s) up for a sport or activity at one of the local parks (or gymnastics that meets at our building). Then show up. Meet other parents. Connect with other families. Want more ideas about connecting youth sports in the park system with missional living? Contact one of our locally supported ministries: R.O.C.K.
What are you good at or excited about? Host it at your home or in your yard. Whether it is an acoustic concert on your deck or porch, a lawn game tournament, a stop on the Lola art crawl, or an outdoor movie, connect your passion and talents with opportunities to build relationships.
Enjoy our local green spaces (here's our local favorite). Meet new people or meet up with friends and neighbors.
Invite someone out for lunch after a Sunday service.
Visit your local Farmer’s Market: go often and to the same vendors, learning their names, and building a relationship with them as well as participate in the community that many Farmer’s Markets create.
Join a local garden (if you don’t already have one in your yard). There are a number of them in South Minneapolis. There will be lots of opportunities to meet people as you garden alongside others.
"I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people" -1 Timothy 2:1
Through the power of the Spirit, let’s be a church (individually and corporately) that intentionally moves into our city this summer to reach those who don’t yet know the saving power of Jesus!
SPENCER PETERSON / COMMUNITY LIFE PASTOR