Since the celebration of the bicentennial centers around community-based communion services, it is imperative that leaders all across the United States, and the world, take steps in their own cities and towns to “make it happen.”

First, talk with other leaders in your own congregation. Explain to them what the bicentennial is all about. Make sure to send them to this website: www.greatcommunion.org to see for themselves.

Second, once your own church is excited about the possibilities, then begin contacting other Stone-Campbell churches in your community. A sample letter is provided.

Third, after you send the letters, follow up with phone calls to the ministers, or elders, of the congregations in your mailing. Schedule a face-to-face meeting to plan for World Communion Sunday 2009.

Fourth, study together the historical and theological materials provided on this website.

Fifth, organize small groups to pray for the service you are planning, as well as the ministries of each member church.

Sixth, talk it up. (See the Talking Points provided.) Share the excitement of the bicentennial celebration to the membership of each church.

Seventh, determine who will take part in leading the special communion service. Assign areas of responsibility. Talk through the issue of whether or not to use musical instruments in the service.

Eighth, advertise the special communion service in your bulletins, newsletters, circles, men’s groups, youth and children gatherings, and on the website of each participating congregation.

Ninth, share the news with your wider community. This is a great outreach tool. Explain why you are planning the communion service. Invite the entire community to worship with you.

Tenth, gather in joint worship on Sunday October 4, 2009 to remember Thomas Campbell, celebrate our movement, sing praises to God, and accept Christ’s invitation to his Table.

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