Open Arms

St. Timothy’s welcomes the community to join its congregation in worshipping God and serving others. As simple as this may sound, formalizing and performing such a task is no small feat. The church's Open Arms Ministry greets newcomers and familiarizes them with our parish. Ministry members seek to make everyone feel welcome and a part of our extended church family.

Open Arms provides a variety of services to better acquaint individuals with both St. Timothy’s and the Episcopal faith. Ministry members deliver loaves of bread with greetings from the church to newcomers who sign our guest book, make a donation, or fill out pew cards. Open Arms representatives coordinate visits within 7 to 10 days of these occurrences. Greeters are members of the Ministry who are available at church entrances before and after services. Open Arms provides the blue folder welcome packages, which include news and information about the many services and ministries of St. Timothy’s as well as membership transfer forms and information.

Open Arms coordinates two annual receptions for newcomers, usually in the Spring and Fall. The Ministry also coordinates "Welcome Home Sunday" and the Ministry Fair. Open Arms also offers the "What is an Episcopalian?" short class twice a year. The Ministry members continue to look for new ways to better engage newcomers and build our congregation ranks and they encourage suggestions.

And just as the church welcomes newcomers, the Open Arms Ministry also welcomes new volunteers. Those interested in getting involved should contact the chair Jill Cox. Jill reminds the congregation that in practice, we should all act as members of the Open Arms Ministry and introduce ourselves to visitors and make them feel welcome.

Committee Chair: Jill Cox
Phone: 703-327-5021