March 2 1998

ARTICLE TOOLS

Find similar articles E-mail this page

Saint David's Anglican Church, with property facing a busy six-lane highway in Sydney, had problems making its presence known until rector Richard James came up with an idea. If drivers can pick up fast food for their bodies, why not a drive-through with food for the soul?

Thousands of commuters pass the little church in suburban Forestville each day. They often must slow down because of congestion. A sermon cassette tape to listen to on the way to work could relieve frustration and boredom, James figured.

Results have exceeded expectations. James and church members distributed hundreds of tapes to motorists who pulled into the church's circular driveway from 7 to 9 a.m. for three days in November and December.

The congregation, with about 150 regular attendees, supports the drive-through days enthusiastically. On distribution days, a team of about two dozen helpers gathers at 6:30 a.m. to pray and organize signs to let motorists know the drive-through is open.

Topics tackle real-life issues. James called the first series "Sex, Lies, and God." The second series, "The Meaning of Life," came from the Book of Ecclesiastes.

The next drive-through is planned for Easter.