Open Gym at St Philip's

This September, we began a monthly Open Gym night on the last Friday of every month. Families gather for a potluck dinner at 5:30 and then play games in the gym or board games until 8:00. In order to make this event a success, it takes many hands working together. Many people from the parish have volunteered as either adult supervisors for the games happening in the gym or as potluck hosts who set up food in the kitchen and clean up after dinner. Beyond those who have signed up ahead of time, there is a very helpful atmosphere amongst all those who come to participate to make sure no single person is doing all the work.

This programme has also been supported by St Mary's Kerrisdale who have included it on their monthly calendar of events for families and youth. Their youth leader Cameron Gutjahr has also made Open Gym a part of his ministry with young people. This is in keeping with the increased cooperation between Youth and Family Ministries in our two parishes. Our combined Monday night youth group has been an important part of this as well. This past Friday evening, two families from St Mary's, both with youth who attend our combined youth group, came to our Open Gym Night for the first time. This was a great opportunity for families from both parishes to hang out and have fun together.

I am very excited about the future of this programme as it continues to grow at St Philip's. I am grateful for the participation of so many families and volunteers already and I am eager to let more people know about this great programme. As you can imagine, Open Gym is open to everyone and it is a wonderful opportunity for fellowship - it is like an extended coffee hour (except with pizza instead of coffee). I would encourage you all to drop in next month especially when we will be having a very special Mardi Gras themed Open Gym (Friday, Feb. 28th, mark your calendars now!). Bring your friends and family along and celebrate with us!