Arkansas Baptists hosted a block party workshop on Saturday, Feb. 7, at Parkway Place Baptist Church in Little Rock. (Mary Alford/ABN)
LITTLE ROCK – From planning to follow-up, Arkansas Baptists’ block party workshops are helping churches transform fun neighborhood events into meaningful ministry.
The training workshops, made possible by generous giving to the Cooperative Program, guide churches in planning, promoting, and executing neighborhood events that combine fun with faith. The most recent workshop was held Saturday at Parkway Place Baptist Church in Little Rock, where attendees learned strategies for building relationships and sharing the gospel through community block parties.
Led by Community Missions Strategist Clint Ritchie, the workshops train churches on planning, logistics, safety, and evangelism strategies. During the workshops, Ritchie highlights five keys to a successful block party: prayer, planning, promotion, presentation, and pursue.
Prayer and Planning
Prayer is the foundation. Churches are encouraged to seek guidance not only for hosting the event but also to determine if a block party is the right outreach method for their community.
Planning goes beyond games and food. Churches are encouraged to form teams to handle goals, location, timing, volunteers, and supplies. Hosting in neighborhoods or community spaces—rather than only on church property—reduces barriers and encourages participation. Timing should consider weather, school calendars, and local traditions, while careful planning of food and activities ensures a positive experience.
Many churches also partner with local associations that provide block party trailers, equipment, and trained volunteers, helping share resources and reduce the burden on individual congregations.
Promotion and Presentation
Promotion emphasizes both digital and personal outreach. Churches could hang banners, go door-to-door to hand out fliers for the upcoming event, or post on social media.
Presentation focuses on execution. Simple offerings such as hot dogs, bottled water, and family-friendly activities help create a welcoming environment.
“People are often willing to attend an event even if they aren’t ready to attend a worship service,” Ritchie said. “A block party creates a natural place for connection.” Families are drawn by food and activities but often leave having made new connections with church members and neighbors.
Pursue
Pursue, the final key, emphasizes follow-up after the event. Ritchie stressed that meaningful outreach does not end when the party ends. Following up with attendees, continuing conversations, and inviting participants into ongoing relationships are critical for extending the impact.
Block party ministry often produces lasting benefits, both for the community and for the hosting church. “It’s a simple and fruitful approach that allows churches to share the love of Christ and demonstrate the church’s presence in a positive way.”
Upcoming Workshops
Tuesday, Feb. 17, 2026 – River Bible Church, Mountain Home
Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026 – Ozark First Baptist Church
Each regional training workshop includes inflatable operation certification for persons 18 years of age and older, setup guidance, current liability and insurance laws, and evangelism training.
For more information about block party ministry and workshops across Arkansas, visit absc.org/blockparty.