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Welcoming the Newcomer to Our Community

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“Greeting newcomers shows that we really do value the inherent worth of every person.  The next time that you see an unfamiliar face in church, offer them a smile.”

– Ken Mandile, Lay Leadership Program Council

My dad had an amazing ability to spark a conversation with any stranger that he met.  Within minutes of meeting a store clerk or a delivery person or someone sitting next to him at the doctor’s office, he’d be comparing notes about food and giving out free “advice”.  Somehow, he failed to pass his outgoing genes on to me.  I dread the thought of walking up to a stranger to start a conversation, especially if I’ve got plenty of opportunity to talk to people that I already know.  It’s just not in my “comfort zone”.   If you feel the same way, then find me on Sunday morning near the front doors and we’ll step outside of our zones together.

            I go to the narthex to greet people as they come in the front door.  As part of the ushering team, I take turns handing out orders of service, offering a smile and a greeting, and helping newcomers find their way.  I see familiar faces, parents with their children, out of town visitors, and also a few hesitant newcomers seeking to check us out as they trickle through the huge grey doors on Main Street. We are the first faces they encounter.

            I can imagine that for many people it is intimidating to enter an unfamiliar church.  The ushers and the welcoming team greeting the newcomers give us our first chance to make a good impression.  But what happens after the service, when we have invited them for coffee and hospitality?   How many times have you seen someone that you don’t recognize wandering uncomfortably while others enjoyed conversation with old friends?  Did you feel any impulse to greet them before they left unnoticed?  They’ve seen the beautiful sanctuary, heard an inspirational sermon, and been lifted by wonderful music, but like most of us, our visitors are searching for a welcoming community. 

Greeting newcomers shows that we really do value the inherent worth of every person.  The next time that you see an unfamiliar face in church, take a small risk: offer them a smile, an enthusiastic “hello”, and a sincere welcome.

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