Trunk or Treat 2023
Matthew 5:14-16 “Here’s another way to put it: You’re here to be light, bringing out the God-colors in the world. God is not a secret to be kept. We’re going public with this, as public as a city on a hill. If I make you light-bearers, you don’t think I’m going to hide you under a bucket, do you? I’m putting you on a light stand. Now that I’ve put you there on a hilltop, on a light stand—shine! Keep open house; be generous with your lives. By opening up to others, you’ll prompt people to open up with God, this generous Father in heaven.” (The Message)
The light of StoneBridge was shining this past Sunday night, drawing throngs of costumed children and adults for the second annual Trunk or Treat. God’s glory was on full display through our StoneBridge volunteers who helped make this event such a smashing success! Over 1500 attendees filled our parking lot, three times that of last year. The creativity of the trunk designs and themes was truly mind-blowing! The friendliness and openness of our SB community to visitors bore witness to our passion for being placed for a purpose.
Numbers are great, but the impact for God is vital. StoneBridge is becoming known as a church that loves and cares for its community through its generosity. Fall festivals abound all over Charlotte, but the heart of our staff is not that this be just one more event on the calendar, but one that will serve to grow his kingdom.
Curiosity - “Do you have Sunday school for kids?”, “What type of church is this?” “If we come on Sunday, do we just show up?” are just a sample of questions asked and answered. Engaging visitors in conversation was the beginning of a relationship.
Connections - A mother in our church has been praying for her son’s girlfriend with a two year old to get connected. God orchestrated a divine encounter between her and Kelsey, our kidsMin director, leading to a great conversation and a joyful mother’s heart. Because of our connection with Heal Charlotte, a family that graduated from the transitional housing program was able to come and enjoy the night with us.
Courage - A few 6|12 guys have been bringing a friend to youth group. Previously he was uninterested in youth ministry and his mom was elated that he was having so much fun. Connections were made and we hope his younger sister will come check out middle school. Another StoneBridge family member has been stepping out for months to talk to a neighbor with five kids, inviting them to church with no success. They accepted the invitation to Trunk or Treat and had an absolute blast. Some just need to feel safe to make the move and participate in such a large event with their kids. One comment was heard and rings true, “I knew that since this was a church, it would be a safe place to come with my kids”.
Cards - Many invitations were spread throughout the neighboring areas, but who would think a few would end up in a local gym? They were found by a few girls who were intrigued enough to come! In addition to the cards, our social media campaign had over 2000 reaches, and the promo video from last year was seen by 1700 curious viewers.
Complimentary Perks - The fact that everything at this event was free—from hotdogs to parking to a DJ—was a blessing to many. Because of your generosity, we were able to grill and serve 800 hotdogs to grateful hungry people.
Our overall goal was so much more than putting together an event for the community. We want to be that light Matthew talked about. God is not a secret to be kept and we are called to be light-bearers. We don’t know the ripple effects moving through our neighborhoods, but we pray that as we continue to open up our church to others, they will open up their lives to the saving Gospel of Jesus Christ.
