Tears and laughter could mark such an occasion of remembering. Shut-ins could be invited to fill out a form or perhaps record their ideas on tape. And it would be useful at the end of the day for someone to agree to write up a report featuring the anecdotes to be circulated throughout the congregation. Once the history has been documented and reported, it is good to reflect on that story and talk openly about how parishioners and others understand the congregation as a people of God. Go around the room after dessert and record what people in the room say.
Every comment is valid .
And anyone with a passion for the life of the congregation, leader or not, should feel invited to take part. See if there is consensus about the remarks over time. Include shut-ins in the process as above. End the day by asking each person to pick the three statements that seem most appropriate, and again, make a report available to the entire congregation. The facilitator works as before, making use of tear sheets or a blackboard for recording responses.