Deacons and other leaders have a responsibility and opportunity to create a church that attracts guests and makes them feel wanted and welcome. Building an attractional church takes intentionality, work and constantly working with staff, leaders and congregation to help everyone learn to be alert and sensitive to unique needs of those who are guest. Consider….
- Provide special parking spaces for guests near the front of the church
- Have entrance doors clearly marked and lighted
- Have persons in the parking lot and on the outside of the church to welcome them and assist them if needed
- Provide umbrellas if weather indicates
- Introduce yourself by name as a greeter (wear name tags) and introduce them to others who are in similar age group or family type (i.e. single, single parent, dual career etc)
- Provide clear information in worship folder, or on powerpoint during worship service, as to who is leading in worship that day
- Have clear directional signs in places inside and outside the church in places the guest need signs to be located
- Instruct the members to always introduce themselves to guest by name
- Be sensitive to any special needs guests might have (i.e. health concerns, children needs, ability to stand/sit)
- Provide seats comfortable for guests needs and in location they feel most comfortable sitting.
- When appropriate ask if they would like to be introduced to staff, pastor and other leaders
- Ask guests if they have questions you can assist them with (i.e. facilities, preschool/children areas, program times throughout the week, if they would like to complete a visitor’s card….)
- Provide a simple, yet comprehensive website for the church outlining all age group ministries, how to become a member, staff and pastor bios, directions to the church, times of meetings etc.
- Invite them to the next new members banquet or membership class and meet them there
- Provide printed and web-based information to acquaint them with church vision, values, ministries and mission opportunities
- Invite them to join the fellowship or visit any program and promise that you will meet them at the door to introduce them to others
- Ask them:
- What are you looking for in a church?
- What do you want us to know about you now?
- What do you need to know about me/us now?
- What are life challenges and celebrations you want us to know about?
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- Resources for Creating an Attractional and Inviting Church include:
©Edward Hammett, contributor to The Gospel According to Starbucks by Leonard Sweet and Reaching People Under 40 While Keeping People Over 60 by Edward Hammett & J. Pierce www.transformingsolutions.org & www.ncbaptist.org
