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Super Bowl Party

Making connections with new neighbors can sometimes be difficult, but using sports as common ground is a sure way to break the ice.

When it comes to football fans, there’s no better way to celebrate than with loads of snacks, comfortable seating, and the Super Bowl on TV. Even non-sports fans like to get in on the event. Take advantage of this American pastime by inviting your neighbors to your home on the big day. Get the word out at least two weeks in advance, clear out your TV area so it is primed for extra seating, and pack them in!

You may want to ask each person or family to bring a side dish or drink to help offset the cost. You may even get into the spirit of the game by making food the color of each NFL team. Remember: keep the focus of the day on the game. Inviting football fans over to watch the Super Bowl, then talking over it, will leave the wrong impression.

Use the halftime intermission to play an impromptu game of your own. When halftime begins, distribute football cutouts to each guest. Inform your guests that during halftime, they will not be allowed to say the name of either contending team. If a guest hears someone say either team name, he or she can take that person’s football cutout. The guest with the most footballs at the end of halftime is the winner.

Helpful hint: Do you have lots of children in your neighborhood? Screen a movie, or set up games in an adjoining room, and ask a few of the adults to supervise with you. Chances are, several people won’t be as avid football fans as others – so take this opportunity to engage in friendly conversation.

Instant Intentions

Once you’ve hosted a Super Bowl party, your neighbors will more than likely be counting on your hospitality for the following year. Seek out the sports enthusiasts attending this event, and utilize this information to open conversations on everything from golf to baseball. You may be inspired to host other sports-related parties throughout the year.

- From the book, Field Guide to Neighborhood Outreach by Group Publishing, 2007.

Note: Have you put a Neighborhood Outreach plan into action? Thanks for your effort in His name! If you’d like to share your experience, please contact me. Your project could inspire even more work for His kingdom (and add a little fun to liven up the everyday lives of Immanuel members and their neighbors). – Lisa Jaeger