For more than 300 years, St. Peter’s Episcopal Church has been a place of welcome and hope for the community. We are both a “sanctuary” and “open door” that offers hospitality in the name of Jesus Christ.

The Invite, Welcome, Connect Team knows that one simple and effective way of forming and strengthening our bonds is by wearing nametags at services and gatherings. Nametags say, “We are a place of welcome, inclusion, and openness.”

In the Fall, we will have nametags available for everyone and will encourage guests and newcomers to wear a nametag as well. Why? Recently, the team shared an inspirational article written by Kev Hays, the Senior Warden at St. Anne’s Episcopal Church. Here are its main points, adapted to our St. Peter’s community:

Why are nametags important?

Building Connections

Knowing each other's names is the first step toward deeper relationships. Every week, we welcome newcomers and guests, plus many long-time members of St. Peter’s are part-time residents of the area who attend services seasonally. When we wear name tags, we remove the barrier of unfamiliarity. A name tag invites conversation and connection, making it easier for long-time members and newcomers alike to feel seen and valued.

Welcoming Newcomers

For visitors and new members, entering a new church can be intimidating. Name tags signal that we are a community open to new relationships and eager to welcome others into our midst. They help new faces quickly learn and remember names, fostering a sense of belonging from their very first visit.

Strengthening Our Community

In our growing congregation it is simply impossible to remember everyone's name, especially during busy services and events. Name tags alleviate this pressure, ensuring that everyone can address each other personally and with respect. Wearing a name tag is empowering to others, telling them that you are open to conversation and community. This small act of courtesy reinforces our commitment to being a caring and supportive congregation.

Enhancing Pastoral Care

For our clergy, leadership, and ministry teams, knowing names is crucial. Name tags help them connect names with faces more efficiently, allowing for more meaningful interactions and pastoral conversations.

Encouraging Engagement

When we wear name tags, we signal our openness to engage with others. It encourages us to step out of our comfort zones, greet one another, and form new friendships. It transforms our gatherings from a collection of individuals into a vibrant, interconnected community.

When the time comes, we encourage everyone to wear their name tags. Please see them as a symbol of our dedication to each other and our shared faith journey. Together, let’s continue to build a church where everyone knows they belong.

In Christ,

The IWC Team