3 Ways to Make Valentine’s Day Memorable
Did you see the lectionary reading for Sunday? No? Fun fact: “the formation of the Christian Year [the lectionary readings] was in large part a response to the post-Constantinian shift in Christian identity.” If you can decipher that last sentence for me, you get a free pack of Trident Sugarless Bubblegum.
Back to this week’s lectionary and the New Testament reading: If we’re voting, it’s undoubtedly one of the top ten favorite Bible chapters of all time.
It’s the chapter that lovers love to love, it’s a wedding standard…it’s (drumroll please) 1st Corinthians 13!
If I speak with the tongue of men or of angels, but have not love, I am a noisy gong or a clanging symbol…
Love is patient and kind; love is not jealous or boastful; it is not arrogant or rude. Love does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrong, but rejoices in the right. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things…
So faith, hope, love abide, these three; but the greatest of these is love.
Friends, these are poetic, beautiful, and inspiring words.
And they are a perfect reminder that Valentine’s Day is right around the corner. February 14 is merely two and a half weeks away.
Don’t panic.
You still have time to do something special and memorable for your congregation to let them know that you care about them.
Here are three ideas:
1. Make a banner for worship on Sunday, February 13. In bright bold letters write, “Happy Valentine’s Day! We (heart emoji) You!” Still online? Make one and have it visible during your recording.
2. Set up a phone tree so that every member and regular attender gets a call on February 14. The script can go something like this: “Hello Jamal! I am Pastor Susan [or a member of the leadership council]. I am calling to wish you a happy Valentine’s Day and to let you know that I’m asking God’s blessings on you.”
3. Sign a slew of Valentine’s Day cards and either mail them (seriously, it’s worth the time and postage) or give them out at worship. Live it up and add a piece of foil-wrapped chocolate.
Want more ideas? Check out these previous posts:
It’s Almost Valentine’s Day: Love Your People
Valentine’s Day: Show and Share the Love
Love, Love, Love Your People
In a world that feels chaotic and out of control, you and the Church can be a stabilizing force in the lives of your people. Add a little fun and bring some joy to those individuals in your congregation who need it.
Let this week’s lectionary remind you to celebrate Valentine’s Day with faith, hope, (maybe a little chocolate) and love. Love is the greatest.
Cesie Delve Scheuermann (pronounced “CC Delv Sherman,” yes, really) is a consultant in stewardship, development, and grant writing. For 25 years, while working as a volunteer and part-time consultant, she has helped raise over three million dollars for numerous non-profit organizations. She sends you a Valentine’s Day chuckle: What did one watermelon say to another on Valentine’s Day? You’re one in a melon.” Cue the groan. You can reach Cesie at inspiringgenerosity@gmail.com or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/inspiringgenerosity or at CesieScheuermann.com.
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