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BY CARRIE MADREN

As the Department of Defense reorganizes its base structure, some 60,000 military personnel and family members will be moving to the region by September 2011. A large percentage of these families will be coming to Harford County, near the Aberdeen Proving Grounds.

To help these new neighbors find church homes in Harford County, the Conference set up www.HarfordCountyUnitedMethodistChurches.org, a site that lists all the nearly 40 churches within the county, plus where newcomers can find young adult groups, youth fellowship, United Methodist Men and Women, and even how to connect to a budding church congregation.

Through the website, newcomers can link to county government and other BRAC (Base Realignment and Closure) resources. Those who are new to the faith can find out how to join an Alpha course and learn the basics of Christianity.

As the multitudes begin arriving, Baltimore Suburban District Superintendent Karin Walker and local clergy are learning as much as they can, so they can better help newcomers. For instance, they know the average person will be a 47-year-old professional, a third of them technical and subject matter experts. And, they know people are generally coming from Monmouth, New Jersey, where the denominational demographics are 50 percent Catholic; 5 to 10 percent United Methodist; and 10 percent Jewish.

In addition to the new website, Walker’s district conducted three series of workshops, with two additional programs scheduled, on Radical Hospitality. “We have asked all Harford County pastors to welcome BRAC visitors specifically every Sunday for the next year, whether there are any or not,” explained Walker, so every BRAC newcomer is sure to get a hearty welcome.

Radical hospitality also means thinking about what people see, hear, taste and feel the first time they visit a church. Churches can clean up the narthex and other spaces so interiors look inviting and organized. Workshops also advised churches to follow up with visitors within 24 hours — with a visit from either the pastor or a lay person — to say ‘thanks for coming’ and bring a loaf of bread or other symbol of welcome.

A new church, The Vine, is just getting started and will add a more contemporary option for families. The Vine community, started by the Rev. Stan Cardwell, a former Navy civilian engineer who’s made many moves into new areas, meets at Bel Air UMC.

In addition, individual churches are connecting with real estate agents in their communities asking to be included in mailings, and purchasing ads. Local United Methodist churches are striving to create a visible presence in community events, such as parades, forums, community hearings, mission projects and more.

Finally, pastors and laity will visit with BRAC new members, asking them to connect with others who may want to join the congregation.

Make the Connection: Find out more at HarfordCountyUnitedMethodistChurches.org.