I would really like to do some ministry clowning, but I haven't a clue as to where I should start.
I'm a non-denominational Christian, so I don't really have a church I could go to about this. (I've recently come back to Christianity after a very long absence, and it's taking me a little while to get settled into a community. I'm sad to say that the trust level has to be built up again before I'll regularly attend a church.)
I was thinking of maybe going to the local soup kitchen, and maybe Dottie could help serve food, have some fun with the guests as they wait, etc...The people who eat at soup kitchens have so many burderns, a little cheer might do them well. Would that be appropriate? Have any of you ever volunteered, in clown, at a soup kitchen?

Any other suggestions? I have nothing against any of the churchers here, I just don't know anyone. Should I go around and collect bullitens maybe, and see what sort of events they have and if a clown could be used? Should I call? Write?

I've found that many of the churches are looking for something for the kids as an addition to the present activities. It may be a way of getting your foot in the door. My history as a Christian is very similar to yours, having left the church after high school only to have a "road to Damascus" so to speak experience seven years later that eventually wound me up in a non denominational group. I've also found that most churches have a rich core of great folks. You and God is what really counts.

Here a couple of websites that you might find helpful.
www.clown-ministry.com (http://www.clown-ministry.com) and www.webclowns.com (http://www.webclowns.com) Specifically the page: www.webclowns.com/layperso.html (http://www.webclowns.com/layperso.html)

I'll keep this post short and sweet, and throw up something more when I find it.

This might be fun to check out. It is a webring devoted to sites related to clown ministry.
http://c.webring.com/hub?ring=clownministry

ministry is often just showing people you care, and as they get to know and trust you, you can share your beliefs and how God entered your life.
As far as finding a church, I can imagine there are many ask around and then visit, just because you visit doesn't mean a commitment and if may take several visits til you find one that is more for you and then more visits unit you are sure you want to join

I got my start in the clown ministry by going to a state creative ministry festival held by the southern baptist asso. it's open to all denomonations, and it's held in many states, check with your.