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Another neighborhood party idea would be the “Christmas Bonfire Dessert”. Attached below is a template you can use for an invitation. Print it out on some card stock and tape it to their door or just ring the bell and invite them personally. DON’T put it IN their mailbox. The mailman may remove it as they see the mailbox as government property. I’m speaking from experience. You can also mail it or tape it to the outside of their mailbox!
What we’ve done in the past is provide hot water and cocoa mix/marshmallows, decaf coffee, paper plates, cups and utensils. We invite everyone coming to dress warmly and bring a favorite dessert. We string lights in the trees or bushes in the backyard and play Christmas music and of course a fire pit or two for the bonfire. We even put a movie on for the kids that projected onto the garage door. (It’s a great way to distract them as you talk to your neighbors) One year we sang some christmas carols acappella and another we had someone play the violin. (You’ll probably want to print up some sheet music for people to share. See attached below.)
Because it’s a Christmas event it’s easy to transition to spiritual conversations. Simply asking about their traditions and them asking you usually brings up the subject of church. You can ask what their spiritual background (denomination) is and if it still plays a role in their life today. You’ll also realize that it won’t be uncommon for people to ask you why you did this event or to thank you for doing it. As a response we just say, “you know, life can be a challenge and can be even harder when you feel isolated. We just like to do these things so people can get to know their neighbors and know there are people around you who care and care are there to help if they can.” This type of care has led our neighbors to trust us and over time, share deeper things about themselves. This is all about loving and serving your neighbors regardless of them ever coming to faith in Christ. That’s certainly a desire and something we pray about and hope to talk about but we wouldn’t say it’s a goal. The goal is to love and serve them, period. However, talking about our faith in Christ usually does happen…eventually. Enjoy the time and let God do His part.
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