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Parish Family Event

Ministry Toolkit

Parish Family Event

Bring together people of all ages from across the parish for a time of fellowship, fun, and spiritual connection.

Parish Family Event

A Parish Family Night is a gathering designed to bring together individuals and families of all ages from across the parish for a time of fellowship, fun, and spiritual connection. These events are intentionally simple and welcoming, often including food, games, music, and prayer, and serve as a natural space for parishioners to strengthen relationships outside of liturgical settings. Whether it’s a movie night, potluck dinner, or an evening of shared learning and laughter, Parish Family Nights foster a deeper sense of community and belonging, helping people feel rooted in the life of the Church.

When planning a Parish Family Night, it’s important to approach it with a spirit of hospitality, joy, and intentionality. The goal isn’t perfection or performance, but creating a space where everyone, from toddlers to seniors, can participate, relax, and connect. Keep the event simple, accessible, and focused on relationships. Ask: how does this night help people feel more like a family? The best Parish Family Nights reflect the life of the Church, centered on love, shaped by service, and open to all.

Planning & Vision

  • Define purpose and goals of the event (fellowship, outreach, fundraiser, education, etc.)
  • Choose date and time (check parish calendar for conflicts)
  • Choose event type (e.g., picnic, game night, retreat, service project, etc.)
  • Make a vision for what the event will look like
  • Think about what you want people’s interactions to be like with each other, the program, and the space
  • Get blessing and approval from the priest/parish council
  • Form planning committee (delegate roles: food, setup, kids, promo, etc.)

Location & Logistics

  • Reserve the parish hall, gym, church grounds, or off-site location
  • Check availability of tables, chairs, tents, restrooms, etc.
  • Create floor plan or site layout (include food, activity zones, prayer area)
  • Confirm A/V & Wi-Fi needs if applicable
  • Plan for weather (indoor backup if outdoors)

Food & Hospitality

  • Decide food format: potluck, catered, parish-provided, food trucks, etc.
  • Plan kid-friendly and dietary-inclusive options
  • Set up serving and eating areas
  • Recruit volunteers for setup, serving, and cleanup
  • Provide water and drinks (coolers or dispensers)
  • Plan overall atmosphere (music, lighting, centerpieces, etc.)

Activities & Programming

  • Opening prayer or blessing
  • Family-friendly ice breakers (games, competitions, or questions)
  • Craft station or sensory area for young children
  • Short spiritual talk, reflection, or hymn sing
  • Quiet zone or reading nook for overwhelmed kids/adults
  • Make sure to include something that all members of the family will enjoy

Communication & Promotion

  • Create promotional materials (flyers, bulletin blurb, email, social)
  • Announce in church, Sunday School, youth groups, etc.
  • Invite neighboring parishes (if appropriate)
  • Include RSVP or sign-up link if needed
  • Invite families personally in church, via phone call, or text message

Cleanup & Follow-Up

  • Assign cleanup teams (trash, tables, restrooms, leftover food)
  • Thank volunteers and participants
  • Share photos on parish platforms (with permission)
  • Debrief with team – what went well, what to improve
  • Consider a short reflection survey for attendees