Thursday, November 15, 2007

What are people looking for?


As we are working here in Puerto Rico, particularly with the English speaking group there is a special challenge--finding contacts. In the past, most of my contacts have come from the brethren so I haven't had to go out looking for many of them. But with only 9 other members, most of whose friends speak Spanish that hasn't worked, at least not yet. Door knocking won't work very well either because those who want to worship in English are scattered all over the island--one in this neighborhood, 2 in that one, etc. So we are advertising in the English language newspaper and radio station.
Which brings up another problem? What can you say in 30 seconds that might interest people enough to come visit or call for more information? There is a need for doctrinal teaching, but how much can you do in 30 seconds and will that pique their interest? What we've finally decided on is to begin with a question, give one brief answer (or part of the answer) and encourage them to call or visit for more information. We are planning to tie as many of these questions as we can to our current classes or sermons--"for more information on this topic visit us Sunday for the sermon".
This will be trial and error for awhile, as our listening audience is very diverse--Puerto Ricans, people from New England and NYC, some from Florida, etc. They are process engineers, retirees, business owners, and housewives. They range from the young professionals who went to school in the States to older people who sold their home in NY.
Any thoughts you have in this area would be appreciated.
Tol

Tuesday, November 13, 2007

Our first "Gospel meeting" at Caparra Terrace


The sign in the window is what's called a "Cruza Calle" advertising our first Gospel meeting. It literally means "crossing the street" and in the past they were banners strung from one utility pole to another across the street. Nowadays it's any vinyl sign.
We had Jose Coronado preach for us Friday & Saturday night, as well as the usual time on Sunday morning. The number attending was high--15 on Fri. and 10 on Sat. All the visitors were Christians--some from the English speaking church at Caparra and the rest from other nearby churches.
We also passed out tracts in the area around the church building, to let people know we're still meeting there and that we're back actively working and trying to reach others.
Ed and I will be preaching another Gospel meeting this weekend, but this time in English. This will be quite a change, as the church has met only on Sun. AM for many years now. We began Bible study on Wed. night last week (with everyone present) and now 2 extra nights.
Please pray that we may all grow together and find others who are seeking the truth.
Tol