Clowns in Street Ministry

Tom Eggleston

A. Locations
1. Malls
2. Streets
3. City and state parks
4. Mobile home parks
5. City and town squares
6. Public arenas

B. Preparation
1. Find out where you're going. Get permission.
2. Block off the performing area. Have assembly point.
3. Safety—to and from site. Transportation—written  instructions and verbal instructions. Take communication  equipment (radios, cell phone, etc., if available).
4. Time frame. Obey time rules. When do they want you  there? Check schedule.

C. Planning
1. Know situation.
2. Break into small groups.
3. Know area covered.
4. Plan for lunch. Call McDonald's ahead of time.
5. Never break off alone. Stay in pairs.
6. Don't "hit" upon same person. Find new people.
7. Don't let people hang on to you.
8. Be kind.
9. Have sharing time afterwards. Debrief. Talk about good  and bad experiences.

D. Arrival
1. Prayer
2. Tracts
3. Purpose
4. Watch for traffic and vehicles. Don't go to cars in the  street.
5. Never take the place of an officer. Obey all rules.
6. Be sensitive to situations.
7. Grocery store—Clowns can help push carts and help put  groceries in carts.
8. Respect people's space. Don't force yourself. Don't touch  unless they are receptive. Wait for invitation.
9. Parking lots are public domain.
10.Check out all laws. Driving in costume and make up may  be illegal.

Special Note:
If children are part of your clown ministry:

• Make sure they understand all rules necessary for their  safety.
• Have written parental consent forms on file.
• Carry a medical release signed by a parent or guardian.  Get emergency contact telephone numbers.

Adapted from an article by Tom Eggleston in the 1993  National Resort Ministries Conference notebook. Used by  permission