I jotted down some things recently that were mostly introduced during my city ministry, specifically on Sundays, little by little, over many years -- one-third of these things already existed before my ministry -- about half a dozen still exist now:
• Door welcome • Bulletins • Bibles in the pews • Sermon outlines • Membership application slips • Pencils • Pre-service singing • Church choir • In-service singing • Greeting in the pews • Hymn books • Flowers • Security alarm • Older Sunday School class • Younger Sunday School class • "Cry room" • Post-service prayer • Organist and pianist • Doxology • Welcome and notices • Ministry by members • Member reading • Vestry prayer (before services) • Minister greets all churchgoers (after services) • Special prayer (after services) • Vestry time (after services) • Church tea (alternate Sundays) • Verger's duties (various) • Set up amplifier • Suggestion box • Large print books • Church library • General collection • Benevolent fund (occasional) • Holy Communion (occasional) • Wheelchair access (occasional) • Reserved parking
OBSERVATION: This list will surely not be complete. There are at least 30 things that needed to be attended to most Sundays. All of these needed special attention, even if it was small. It speaks of a vast bustle on a Sunday, all serving the purpose of a thriving Church. Many Churches have this kind of bustle, and few people would really notice.
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