Our storefront evangelization is relatively new, starting in 2019 with a stimulus from our new pastor. As with VON, we start our efforts with group prayer in the church chapel. After prayer we again divide into teams of 2 or 3. We have created a sign that basically says “Free Prayer” and has some Christian symbols on it.
So far, we have invited ourselves to two large, local grocery stores within a mile from our church. Upon arrival we go inside the store and speak with the manager about our efforts outside their front entrances that day. One of the managers was so generous as to give us some money for our church! We stand outside the front doors and greet each person entering the store. Some smile. Some ignore us. Some tell us they will see us on their way out. AND, some stop and speak with us.
Some then ask us for prayer. One pregnant mom asked for prayers for her soon-to-be-born child. Some have recognized us from prior trips and come back asking for more prayers. Some have asked for prayers for healing for some medical problem and our pastor offers them his healing prayers. If they ask us we tell them where we are from and give them one of our parish tri-fold hand-outs. Many recognize the church since they often pass it while driving along Evergreen. Several have said they will stop by the church to see what it is like during one of our services.
And, some do stop for us on their way out of the store … just like they promised!.