“SJA is truly a Christian Church. We don’t discriminate. We are nourished. We serve the broader community in many ways. Our tagline, We Welcome You Wherever You are on Your Journey, says it all,” said Jack.

About 30 New Parishioners enjoyed meeting each other and SJA staff at the biannual New Parishioner Party in Hospitality Hall on April 1. Apart from engaging conversation and a tasty meal, new at this event were the “Secret SJA Handshake” and the “Price of Salvation Game”.

The Secret SJA Handshake, a spoof introduced by Anna Vagle, was quickly learned by all attendees. Two handshakers could easily lift another person (imagine sitting on the crossed arms of the SJA logo) - symbolic on several levels.

The “Price of Salvation Game” provided outstanding entertainment. In groups of three, new parishioners were asked SJA fact questions by game show host Julie Madden (staff position: Peace & Justice Ministries). Example: A contingent of SJAers recently visited a foreign country with Fr Jim Cassidy – which country did they visit? - Zimbabwe, South Africa, Sudan or Nebraska. Answer: South Africa. The first to answer received a prize. The questions were a fun way to learn about SJA.

New Parishioners listed their occupation on their nametags, both to stimulate conversation and to uncover talents that would fit to various SJA ministries. The New Parishioners were encouraged to get involved - even as "worker bees" to start - in order to feel connected, serve others and have fun.

When privately asked, "Why did you join SJA?" people said:

• “No place I’d rather be. The centerpiece of my week.” Janis
• “Wanted to stay in the Catholic Church. Other parishes were uninspiring and stuck.” Theresa
• “Inclusive to all. Ecosprituality. Community outreach.” Michelle
• “More joyful experience on Sunday. Great children programs.” Carlos
• “Incredible music. Exceptional messages from the speakers. Welcoming community.” Gloria
• “It’s everything!” Jim

Many thanks Steve, Joe and the volunteers who served the event. The next New Parishioner Party is planned for Fall 08. If you missed this event, remember to come next Fall!!!

and

Jerry Hartlaub commutes from New Brighton with his wife, Trish, to be refreshed and challenged at the "SJA spiritual oasis". He's a Sunday mass slide jockey and "worker bee" at many SJA events. For fun he has written a bunch of poetry, printed his first book, and invented lots of stuff in a 30-year bioengineering career. These days he teaches cardiac physiology (but he's mostly retired), serves on non-profit boards, does Junior Achievement gigs and plays softball. But most rewarding is providing child-care for two of the world's smartest, cutest grandchildren.