The following article was written for The Christian Caller, the monthly newsletter of First Christian Church of Farmville

It is fall. That means that we are heading into the months of the year that seems to define who we are as a church.

Homecoming is October 12. On this day, we will open our doors wide and generously welcome our members, former members, and friends of our church with an extravagant meal on the grounds following the worship service.

Halloween at FCC is October 31. On this day, we will welcome the entire community to our church with a hot dog supper, fun Halloween games, and Halloween candy!

Fall Festival is November 8. On this day, we will once again swing wide our doors to welcome all to our annual yard sale, country kitchen, dinner and auction to raise money for various mission projects in our community and around the world.

Breakfast with Santa is December 13. On this day, we will welcome the community to our church with a breakfast and a chance to see Santa before the Farmville Christmas parade.

I believe each of these events defines our church and even differentiates us from other churches and organizations.

Homecoming defines us as a church with an extravagant welcome. When we open our doors, we swing our doors wide to graciously welcome all people. And we are not just going to shake a hand, give a friendly nod or even offer a little hug. We are going to prepare a place at our table and generously serve and feed others as if they are a part of our family.

Halloween at FCC defines us as a church with an unconditional welcome. Our Halloween party is not just for the children of our church and those they might invite. Our party is for all children. That includes: ghosts, goblins, mummies, vampires, witches, monsters, and even little devils.

Fall Festival defines us as a church with a missional welcome. All are not only welcomed to simply come to our church, but all are welcomed to be the church with us. All are welcomed to join us in our mission to minister to others locally, regionally and globally.

Breakfast with Santa defines us as a church with a community welcome. Our church has a passion for and long history of generously serving the town and people of Farmville.

Our church’s activities are not for us, nor are they about us. The focus is never inward, but always outward. Our mission is never self-serving, but always about serving others. It is never about getting, but always about giving. Furthermore, all of our activities are done in the name of the Christ who generously and extravagantly welcomes all people to His table.

Hmmm. Maybe it is not the activities of the coming months that define us after all.

We are defined by the Table that we gather around each Sunday morning and by the Christ who invites us all to that table.