An
Evangelistic Block Party (EBP) is to reach people for Christ by meeting
their needs, spiritually, physically, emotionally, and socially.
Since 1989 this outreach
method has been used in many places and in many situations. We reach people
by intentionally sharing the gospel in a variety of ways: personal
witnessing by trained witnesses, distribution of New Testaments and/or
gospel tracts and booklets, and through music, gospel rapping, skits, puppet
shows, and any other appropriate way to share the love of Jesus Christ with
people.
The ministry of providing a
barbecue lunch, or sandwiches and snacks helps to meet a physical need.
Many churches also prepare bags of groceries to give away, and very
often clothing is given away at the event. Churches should buy prizes or
solicited them from local merchants for the prize drawings.
An informal atmosphere of
acceptance and friendliness helps to break down social, racial, economic,
and religious barriers. This
allows EBP workers to build relationships and gain acceptance from those who
are present. New friendships
will be established with the non-churched.