Hyde Park plans for
Open House Month

Hyde Park UMC, Austin, has prayed and planned for Open House Month during September like United Methodist congregations all over America.
Hyde Park kicked off Open House Month Aug. 27 with its ever-popular Carnival O Fun.
To get into the festive atmosphere, the church began with a “Service in the PARKing Lot” at 10 a.m. in the parking lot across the street. The open-air worship featured Connor Brace’s jazz band and ended with Holy Communion.
“Our primary task as a local United Methodist congregation is reaching out and receiving with joy all who will respond; encouraging people in their relationship with God and inviting them to commitment to God’s love in Jesus Christ; providing opportunities for them to seek strengthening and growth in spiritual formation; and supporting them to live lovingly and justly in the power of the Holy spirit as faithful disciples,” said the Rev. Cheryl Broome, pastor, quoting from The Book of Discipline.
“What better time than during Open House Month to reach out to our local community in September by leading special Sunday worship and activities?”
Other special events planned during Open House Month are:
> Sept. 3—College Tailgate Party. Members were to wear their college T-shirt to help us kick off the start of the school year. The church invited college students to stay for the tailgate party lunch after church and gave out HPUMC water bottles and notebooks.
> Sept. 10—Love Thy Neighbor. Hyde Park sent special invitations to all who use its facilities throughout the year. The church invited all neighbors to visit and receive a mug and loaf of bread made by the hospitality team.
> Sept. 17—WEE Worship. Morning worship is to be kid-oriented with music, song and message aimed at children. Kids are to serve in worship as ushers, acolytes and witnesses. Children are to receive milk and cookies after church.
> Sept. 24—Legacy Sunday. The day is to honor Hyde Park’s heritage and roots. The church plans to spotlight longtime members and provide stations where people can record church history for future generations.
Hyde Park members are being encouraged to bring a guest every Sunday during September as the congregation fulfills the promise that “Our hearts, our minds and our doors are always open.”