Covenant UMC, Austin, earns welcoming-congregation status

Covenant UMC, Austin, joined the Southwest Texas Conference list of certified welcoming
congregations in September.
In October 2006, after launching its highly successful strategic plan, Covenant actively pursued its commitment to becoming a welcoming congregation. That certification was awarded to the church Sept. 18 by the Igniting Ministry Team at United Methodist Communications in Nashville, Tenn.
For Covenant, the Igniting Ministry Team recognition came at an ideal time. The church was participating in September Open House Month, themed “Hello Neighbor,” to promote “open hearts, open minds, open doors.” The “Hello Neighbor” campaign was launched in August with a canvassing team comprising representatives from every ministry of Covenant.
The canvassing team successfully distributed 1,000 door hangers door-to-door throughout the surrounding neighborhoods, reaching out in particular to people who feel something is missing from their life and are looking for meaning or purpose.
Every Sunday in September was purposely devoted to visitors, guests and seekers, climaxing in a church-wide “Hello Neighbor” ministry fair and picnic Sept. 30. The picnic was donated in part by Rudy’s Country Store and Bar-B-Q of Austin.
Welcoming congregations are a select group of United Methodist congregations nationwide that meets criteria including embracing newcomers and providing opportunities in disciple-ship. The recognition program is part of a larger effort launched in late 2000 by United Methodist Communications, the denomination’s communications agency, to use modern technology and the common language of television to spread the good news of Christ to a world in need. More information is available from the agency’s Web site at www.IgnitingMinistry.org or by calling toll free (877) 281-6535.