Dear Friends, as a church family, we are called to love our neighbors (Mark 12:31)

and actively share the hope of Christ with our community. But ministry doesn’t happen by

accident — it happens when we are intentional. In a growing town like St. Helens, Oregon, there

are abundant opportunities to invite, include, and reach new people with fresh ideas and renewed

purpose.

This April, we begin with Easter — a beautiful reminder of Christ’s resurrection and the perfect

time to extend invitations to friends, neighbors, and family members who may not yet know the

joy of God’s love. Palm Sunday, Holy Week, and Easter services are often one of the most

welcoming entry points for people seeking hope and community, so let’s use this season to reach

out boldly.

First, intentional ministry begins with hospitality (Romans 12:13). We all play a part in making

someone feel welcomed and valued. Beyond Sunday morning greetings, consider writing

personal notes to first-time visitors, offering to meet for coffee. What if each family in our

congregation committed to hosting one new family or individual for dinner this year? These

simple acts can turn a visitor into part of the family.

Second, intentional ministry means going where people are. St. Helens has a vibrant community

life with farmers markets, seasonal festivals, and local service projects. What if our church had a

booth at the market, offering prayer, resources, and friendly conversation? Or a presence at local

events, not just to promote church activities, but to serve — helping with setup, providing water

stations, or offering simple acts of kindness. We can be known as the church that shows up and

helps.

Starting new ministries is another vital part of intentional outreach. What are the needs around

us? Could we launch a weekly parents’ coffee hour and playgroup, offering support and

connection for young families? Maybe a monthly community meal for those experiencing food

insecurity or isolation. What about a creative arts workshop for youth or seniors? Or a ‘secondcareer’

mentoring program, connecting experienced professionals in our

congregation/community with young adults starting their careers. These ideas come to life when

we pray, listen to our community, and take action.

Finally, let’s not forget the power of invitation (John 1:46; Matthew 28:19-20). Most people

visit a church because someone personally invited them. What if we each prayerfully identified

three people we could invite in the next three months (James 1:5) — to worship, to a community

event, or simply to coffee and conversation? Personal connection is the seed from which new

ministries and relationships grow.

Intentional ministry asks us to be creative, courageous, and consistent. It means seeing every

interaction as an opportunity to reflect Christ’s love. St. Helens is filled with people looking for

connection, hope, and purpose — and God has placed us here to help meet that need.

Let’s commit together to being intentional in our hospitality, presence, and creativity, trusting

that God will use our efforts right here in St. Helens.

Our prayer, “Thy will be done…”

Pastor Peter J. Blank