Easter is almost here, and many churches are preparing for the big day. They’re sprucing up and preparing for additional worshippers. But are our churches really “guest ready”? A woman who moved recently tells of visiting several churches, only to find that she wasn’t greeted by anyone, had a hard time finding her way around, and left without an invitation to a small group or any real means of connection.
From what she described, you could get a better welcome at Lowes.
Maybe we need a refresher on how to make guests feel welcome. Now, the Sunday before Easter, is the time to have a holy huddle with the regulars and review a few rules on “Welcome 101.”
LifeWay’s Thom Rainer has just released a book on that subject: Becoming a Welcoming Church. He says many things we would expect about good parking and clear signage. But it’s the attitude our church’s people display toward new people that really sticks. A smile and a heartfelt handshake go a long way.
In a related podcast, Rainer urges these 9 things for regular attenders:
1.Pray as you enter the property.
2.Park at the most distant spot.
3.Greet people.
4.Look for people to help.
5.Sit close to the front of the worship center.
6.Sit in the middle of the row.
7.Sit closely.
8.Volunteer to serve.
9.Pray as you leave.
– This list is from “Rainer on Leadership” #414