Welcoming new people at church can be difficult for some congregations. The tendency to fall into predictable patterns and routines at church is common, so anything the interrupts that can make things confusing. To avoid that flummoxed feeling, it’s best to prepare for guests before they arrive – and make it easy on them when they do.
Churches in large cities – like Detroit’s Old St. Mary’s Church – are often used to travels attending their services and are usually accommodating to unfamiliar faces. But not every church has the experience that Old St. Mary’s has with out-of-town guests and new attendees. So, how can you make your new visitors comfortable? It’s easier than you think!
Follow the Signs
It might sound simple, but many churches today offer clear signage posted throughout the facility – as well as around the grounds – that direct new and old attendees alike to the important areas of the building. Follow this trend and post plenty of easy-to-read signs for your guests to follow.
Be There to Welcome Guests – But Not Too Much
Your guests want to be welcomed personally. Employ a staff or solicit volunteers to greet guests at the doors or in the parking lot with a smile, a handshake or an offer of directions should they need them.
However, no one likes to be pointed out in a crowd. Avoid directing your congregation’s attention to your guests during service. Otherwise, you’re unlikely to see those faces again!
Make It Simple
When you’re entertaining guests at home, they like to relax and just enjoy your company. The same is true when your church is welcoming new faces. Make things as simple as possible for your new attendees, and they’ll be more likely to return. This includes everything from finding the bathrooms to getting kids checked in to the childcare or Sunday school services. Whatever your church offers to your regular attendees, make it easier on them, and you’ll make it easier for guests to enjoy themselves, too.
