the new family

Yep. All these people are new to church.

That’s a lie.

But, every church has a different way on how they think is the best way to greet new people to their church.

You know. It’s that awkward point of the service when the pastor asks, “Is there anyone here that is new to this church? Please raise your hand and we would love to welcome you.” Please stop doing this. Nobody can seriously like this.

There’s also the “bring the new folks into a different room before/after the service so we can find out all about them” church. I hated those rooms back when we were visiting churches and maybe you did, too.

Then there’s the “new people to church” dinners. You get free food out of this deal, but you sit at a table full of people that you’ve never met before and most likely have nothing in common with. This whole time is spent trying to make up a bunch of small talk. Maybe some people like this sort of thing.

That last one is my favorite because of the free food.

Maybe these are the best ways out there, but for some reason I think there has to be something better. I think we just stick with these because this is what we’ve always done.

I’m searching for new ideas.

How does your church welcome “the new family”?

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rallyfan

Maybe it needs to stop being a “corporate” activity and become an “individual” activity. Common complaints about the “coldness” of a church usually is because individuals did not make a new person feel comfortable. If individuals in the pews turn and just be friendly and genuine . . .

Just my two cents.
http://twitter.com/vfmurphy Vincent Murphy

The idea of the hand raising is so that other members will be sure to informally welcome them. This needs other members to realise that’s their role of course – really it needs a congregation which understands that church meetings aren’t just about addressing God but very much about relating to God through one another.
Hockeygal4ever

Honestly, I found a church that has the most laid back way of being together. Yes, it’s got 2 personas perhaps… Saturday nights they become the hip, Christian rock get together. So laid back & just down to earth music about God. Nothing stuffy. They greet each other, never pointing out “newbies” but if you are new they always make a point to say hello & introduce themselves. By day they do the typical Methodist style service up in the church. What they do there… I’ll probably never know cuz the Haven Cafe is more my style, snacks, drinks, comfortable clothing (t shirt & jeans welcome) & a message that’s short & sweet mixed with some amazing groups they get in!
http://twitter.com/joyfuldance Mish Traje

I agree with rallyfan. One of the best ways to make a newcomer come back on the next Sunday services is that regular attendees/workers/leaders should find time to approach them genuinely and to ask things about them. I believe when they see that you’re really interested about knowing them, they’ll feel comfortable maybe not in a couple of services after but soon enough just before they think about trying another church. And NEVER EVER forget or call them in another name when you asked. Be honest and ask them again if you did. It shows if you pay attention to what they say.
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http://larry.org/ lars30

What’s most interesting to me is that we all do it the same way. “Hi my name is Larry, what’s yours?” and then we see if we make a connection or not. This is how we welcome people to everything. When we orchestrate ourselves to much to grow we can really push the process so far the simple act of welcoming and listening becomes, i don’t know, ‘transactional’.

In all the examples you mentioned there is an incredibly awkward social conceit. It’s like the new person’s possible discomfort is explained away with “We’re the church and even though this is a social awkward moment we’re setting up people will be cool with that once they get to know us.” Don’t give in to that rationalization.

They have a reason they came to your service. They may not even know what it is. Get to know them yourself, introduce them to others, and listen to what they want to do. Let it happen.
http://www.mohan37.com/ mohan37

We ask visitors to fill out welcome cards if they’re comfortable, and we bring them freshly baked cookies that evening. http://www.hope4detroit.com
http://jackalopekid.com jackalopekid

Good thoughts and conversation goin on her folks
http://jackalopekid.com jackalopekid

good thoughts
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the new family

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