The Middletown Press (Middletown, CT)
Homecoming set at Christ Episcopal in Guilford
GUILFORD — It will be a homecoming at the Christ Episcopal Church and all are welcome to join in the celebration.
“We are back on a regular schedule, starting on Sept. 12. That will be our first day back,” said Donna LaFata, communications director.
“If people are looking for a new church community, have been away for a while, or just want to check us out, we want everyone to know that all are welcome here,” she added.
The Welcome Back Celebration is scheduled for 10 a.m., Sunday, Sept. 12. All are invited to the church service, followed by a gathering on the church lawn that will include food, an ice cream truck, games, music for kids and adult fellowship.
Please RSVP to communications@christchurchguilford.org.
“We’re inviting the community in case anybody after this long year and a half is looking for something a little bit different or to come back to church or to go to church again,” said LaFata.
Masks will be required inside the church building.
“We know that new people have come into town and we’re just trying to connect with them, give them a space in our town that is safe and loving and inclusive,” LaFata said.
She added that it is a very exciting time for the church.
“With new programming for youth and a new high school youth leader we do a lot of outreach programs,” she said.
Dorota Xeller, director of Children and Youth Ministries, who is new to the church, is looking forward to immersing herself in the parish.
“With my musical background I want to bring arts and music into not only Sunday school, but programs that are creating enrichment to the whole entire community,” she said.
“So, bringing back music performances that are open to everybody, not only parishioners, and working together with Will Parker who will be leading high school and middle school children and really focusing on music and art around religion,” she added.
LaFata is excited about welcoming everyone to the church.
“It will feel fantastic to be back in person and have everyone around us and have to kids back in a normal type of situation,” she said. “It’s exciting.”