Activities connect
church, community

Hyde Park UMC, Austin, has launched a new Thursday evening program that features a walking club, book club, family music time, “What is Spirituality?” study, financial planning, a simple service in the chapel and a children’s church.
The “Thursday Connect” program came out of Hyde Park UMC’s desire to have a new worship service, create more small group classes, bring the message of Christ to the world, and renew building space, including the previously unused chapel and library.
In addition to the programs, dinner and worship provide opportunities for fellowship and for starting to build a larger sense of community.
“Thursday Connect” was initially planned to be only a Lenten event, but because of its success, the program is going to continue.
Since its launch March 2, “Thursday Connect” has averaged 60 participants each week (the normal Sunday attendance for Hyde Park is 80 to 100). More than 15 percent of “Thursday Connect” participants are new to the church.
For more information contact Hyde Park UMC Thursday Connect Director Todd Salmi at trout@ texas.net or (512) 302-9611.
Visit www.thursdayconnect.org to learn more.