Courtyard Connect

A PLACE FOR FAMILIES TO CONNECT

AUTHOR: SAMSON TANG, PASTOR OF FAMILY MINISTRY

“Mommy! There’s courtyard connect today! Can we go to the courtyard and play with my friends?!” 

I smiled when I heard these words from a child on Sunday morning. It was a beautiful day outside, and we had just finished a wonderful worship time and my heart was full from the encouraging sermon. I was looking forward to going outside to fellowship and connect with my church family in the courtyard. A safe and gated place where I could have a conversation without worrying about my kids interrupting because they had the space to be kids. Obviously, the kids were looking forward to it as well!

What makes a church feel like home? Is it the worship? The sermons? Is it the building? All those are important, but I believe that what really makes a church your home, is the connections, the fellowship, and the community. One of the most common illustrations for the church in the Bible is a family. And one of the hallmarks of a family is that they spend time together. Of course, life groups, sports, game nights, and meeting on Sundays are all important parts, but it’s nice to have a place after a sermon on Sunday where you can go and talk with some friends while having a place to let your kids run and play with their friends. Or a place where people, with or without kids, can gather after church and talk about their week.

And that is what Courtyard Connect is all about. A place where church families can meet after a message. A place where your kids can safely run and play with their friends they met during Sunday school. A place to meet other families and members of Grace. A place for everyone to connect. So next time you’re passing by the courtyard (on the right of the worship center doors) after a service, come join us! You’ll be glad you did.