Welcoming the Stranger

Can you recall a recent time in your life when you felt out of place or lost in a particular environment? We all have experienced this feeling in our lives. Perhaps, the last time you began a new job you had that “Gee, I feel out of control” feeling. A recent visit to a new doctor’s office or hospital might have stirred a “how do I get to where I’m going?” feeling. Finding what you need in an unfamiliar store may create a bit of frustration. Navigating your way around an unfamiliar city creates anxiety.

The same kinds of of feelings occur at church for newcomers. Churches often make the mistake of assuming that proper greetings and welcoming will naturally occur for persons visiting the church campus. After all, Christians are friendly people! And, surely someone is sensitive to the needs of our guests. But, unless the needs of guests are understood as every member’s concern, and proper steps are taken to welcome guests, many barriers will give guests and newcomers that “uneasy” feeling. And a tad too much uneasiness is the best medicine in the world to send someone looking for a more “user friendly” environment.

The church must make every effort to walk in the shoes (and minds!) of its guests. What are they thinking and experiencing? A few years ago our family, while on vacation, visited a church. We arrived early–about twenty minutes before the worship service began. We found the church vestibule where two men were chatting. Each held a handful of worship guides. It was obvious that they were greeters. We approached them, standing just a few feet from them. At least thirty seconds passed before they acknowledged our presence. Have you ever stood three feet from someone for thirty seconds? It seems like such a short time, but its an eternity for the stranger! One of the men broke away from their intense conversation and said, “Oh, would you like a worship guide?” I wanted to respond with a sarcastic, “Well, why don’t you give us a minute to think about that,” but I didn’t. We entered the sanctuary with worship guides in hand and took our seats. A few minutes later two couples entered the sanctuary and sat on the pew directly behind us. For more than fifteen minutes they chatted about church. Not once did any of them speak to us.

Realtors tell us that the first few moments of a person’s approach and entrance into a home are critical. Decisions are often made within the first few minutes. Cut grass, trimmed bushes, exterior paint, neatness, sweet aroma, and brightly-lit rooms, directly influence a person’s perception of a well cared for home. The same is true at church, but with one additional factor—the people factor. Everything can be in place, but if people inside the doors are not expectantly waiting and prepared for guests, little else matters!

That’s why a welcoming process is needed in areas where guests arrive. Friendly, warm, caring voices, smiles, gestures, and questions go a long way to help guests feel comfortable in unfamiliar surroundings. The following are just few questions guests experience:

1. Where do I park?
2. What door do I enter?
3. Where is the nursery?
4. How do I find a class?
5. Can I try several classes without offending anyone?
6. How do I join a class?
7. Are the people of this congregation a caring people?
8. Will I be accepted and included?
9. What does this church believe?
10. What does this church offer my family?
11. Does this church have a place to use my gifts?

Put yourself in the shoes of guests. What other concerns do they have? This would be a great brainstorming exercise for the congregation’s outreach and greeting team!

The remedy for meeting the initial needs of guests require the following components:

1. Clear exterior and interior directional signs.
2. A well-staffed Welcome Center registration process.
3. Resources explaining the beliefs and ministries of the church.
4. A modern equipped, clean, and loving nursery and children’s environment.
5. Sunday School teachers who arrive early and are prepared for guests.
6. Church members who speak to strangers (and church members) they do not know.

Ya’ll come back, now…