Guess who's coming to church

Imagine visiting a church for the first time. I do it frequently. Unlike many first time visitors to a worship service, the intent of my visit is not to consider if I'll join the church, or even if I'll return for a second visit.

Yet my visits to countless worship services across Indiana, still have impact and leave me with many "first" impressions. Perhaps many have stories of visiting a church and being totally ignored -- no welcome, literally no one speaks or inquires if assistance is needed.

It happens more than I'd like to acknowledge, and in some congregations where one would not expect such a non-reception, since outside the church building in large letters a sign assures "All Welcome."

I remember years ago the religion editor of a prominent Midwest newspaper came upon an intriguing idea. Each Sunday the editor would visit a different local congregation's worship service. In Monday's edition of the paper his column focused on observations, impressions and comments on the worship experience, including the sermon. Needless to say, the column became quite popular, especially in the church community.

Many congregations were challenged to be more conscientious concerning their worship service and their sense of hospitality and welcome. Hospitality, welcome, a warm greeting are what one expects upon entering a congregation for worship. And there are many United Methodist congregations in Indiana, where that's what you'll find. But there are far too many where that is not the case.

In September, throughout the denomination, this month has been designated as United Methodist Church Open House. A very ambitious $20 million national mass media program has been approved by the General Conference. The effort is called "Igniting Ministry"; its theme is "Open hearts, open minds, open doors: the people of the United Methodist Church."

The program aims at letting the public know who we are, primarily through a series of television ads, and to invite viewers to visit a local United Methodist church.

Many congregations in preparation for Open House month have participated in special training events to assist them in welcoming newcomers who have come as a result of seeing the TV ads.

Additionally, members are being encouraged to invite friends, neighbors, even family members to come to worship -- especially those not already related to a congregation.

So September is an opportunity for us all to put out a special "Welcome Mat."

It would be most unfortunate if persons visited a United Methodist Church and instead of finding a warm welcome, observed that no one seemed to care that they came!

I trust congregations have prepared in special ways for this month's Open House. There are many little, but important, things that can be done to signal "welcome" and "hospitality." It can begin in the church parking lot. A special visitor parking area could be designated with members prepared to greet newcomers upon arrival.

Every entrance to the church used on Sunday morning could find a greeter giving welcome and directions to the sanctuary. Persons could be designated to assist new worshippers as they get settled and are reviewing the Sunday morning bulletin.

Should there be a fellowship time or coffee hour following worship, hosts could direct visitors to the Fellowship Hall, introduce them to members, friends, pastor and staff, so they do not feel so isolated and alone during the period of fellowship.

There are many ways to signal to visitors the congregation cares they came. Such a warm and cordial welcome coupled with a warm, vibrant and inspiring worship service may cause that visitor to want to return -- and eventually become a part of such a welcoming fellowship.

September is Open House. I hope you'll be ready!

Last updated on 01/14/2004

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