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I often hear people in our churches trumpeting how welcoming we are. And no doubt that is often true! But it’s not always true. We must never be complacent on hospitality. Our welcome could change someone’s life.
When people walk through the doors of a church for the first time, it’s likely that they are experiencing some major life transition: a new job, a loss, a new baby, a new home, or something else. This places people in a vulnerable spot. A gracious welcome could create a happy memory our guests will treasure for the rest of their lives. And a disappointing experience can wound someone deeply.
In my experience, the only way to know if you’re a welcoming church is to invite mystery guests to come check out your church. This could be someone from a neighboring church, or a curious friend, or a family member or co-worker. The key is that they shouldn’t know anyone in the congregation (except perhaps you, of course). Have them come to church and then coffee hour. Afterward, ask them about their experience.
This is vital. A few years ago, I visited a church that I know prides itself on its “warm welcome.” I had heard all about it. I went by myself, as usual not dressed in clerical garb. When it was time for the passing of the peace, I stood there with my hands in my pockets for several minutes while the members of the church all talked to each other. I was somewhat amused by all this, but had I been searching for a church, this awkward moment might have been devastating.
On more than one occasion, I’ve popped into coffee hour after visiting a church only to have no one speak to me there, as if I were invisible. For me, this provides data—and anecdotes to share on how we need to do better. But for another person, this experience could scar a person for a long time.
Don’t take welcome for granted. Audit yourself, and be ready to work on making sure you welcome guests, and also that you’re not smothering them. Make sure you have good signs on how to enter the building and navigate from the worship space to the bathrooms and wherever coffee hour is held. Have information ready in case new Christians or denominationally curious folks have questions about our beliefs or practices. Be ready.
Oh, and if you have travels coming up, visit a brand new church! See what it’s like to experience the hospitality of others.
Yours faithfully,
Scott Gunn
Executive Director, Forward Movement
Reprinted with Permission
Come to Hope Lutheran Church for worship on Sunday at 10:30 AM, or join us on Facebook at HopeClinton.
All are welcome!
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