On the weekend of Sept. 21-22, the St. Joseph Parish Hall, Washington, was filled with colorful displays manned by volunteers, inviting fellow parishioners to discover the many opportunities available to them to become a vibrant part of parish life.
The Parish Ministry Fair was the idea of parishioner Mary Kovacs, who knew their pastor, Father James A. Krypczak, was encouraging increased participation in the parish community. Kovacs, who is involved in the parish Pro-Life Ministry, oversaw the fair which was made possible “by many hands that went into making it a success,” she said.
Some 19 ministries were represented, and some 100 parishioners visited the fair. The result was all but one ministry increased their ministry list – a good start.
In addition to parish ministries, Father Krypczak invited St. Philip and St. James Parish member Kelly Perna to set up a table for neighboring Saints Philip and James School, Phillipsburg, which was welcomed by Kovacs, whose children “are alumni from SPSJ, I love the school and encourage enrollment.”
Kovacs explained that parishioner Karole Bradunas, who had run the parish fair in years past, served “as my mentor … had her crew also do the refreshments for all Masses.” According to those who work in the church communications field, parish ministry fairs not only highlight the many ministries most parishes undertake throughout the year but serve as strategic opportunities to develop connections and bonds within a parish community and help foster a sense of belonging and purpose among all the faithful, no matter their engagement level.