Volley #8

Volley #8 V. I. P. Parking

Many of our churches have limited parking. Long-time members have figured out ways around that problem—they have found favorite places where they can count on a parking space for church. Guests and newcomers often have no such resources. They need special consideration to reward them for having the gumption to get up on a Sunday morning with the resolve to attend worship.

Why not designate a space or two close to the entrance, perhaps right next to the handicapped spaces, as guest parking? That lets them know right away that they are welcome and valued here, and that it is not just a club for the initiates.

One way to gain such a space is by removing the old “Reserved for Rector” sign. That was a nice gesture of appreciation for the priest. However, unless she has to rush in from leading worship moments earlier at another congregation, the priest is likely to be among the first to arrive, while choice spaces are still plentiful. That special designation may be unnecessary, and it may send an unintended message—that this is a clergy-centered and clergy-dominated congregation.
The Episcopal Church welcomes…whom?