Hebrews 13:2
We all claim we are friendly, hospitable churches but it’s the newcomer who can tell us the truth. We only have one chance to make a first impression. It begins with the appearance of our church. Is parking easily done and do we have signage that will help others know which door to enter and where to go next? Is the newcomer greeted immediately by a warm and helpful person who is not focused on visiting with others but is intentionally reaching out to those not known to the congregation? Do people smile, make an effort to identify themselves and find something out about those who have come? Do we treat them as outsiders by pouncing on them, especially if they are a younger family? Being too friendly can be as offsetting as the cold shoulder.
I attended a church where I was not known and it was startling to experience how I was left alone. I had to find the way to the sanctuary, finally climbing stairs to the next floor. I took a bulletin thrust at me by an usher while she was busy chatting with a friend. I sat alone and no one glanced my way. Without exaggeration, the only human contact I had was with one woman who banged into me as she was pushing past me down the aisle.
Hospitality is far more than how we first greet people. It is about sincere care for our neighbour as an equal part of our community.
How many of our bulletins say, “Be sure to sign the guest book,” or “If you are visiting with us for the first time …?” We unwittingly succeed in reinforcing that they are not one of us. We would be much better to say, “It is good for all of us to be together in worship today.”
And how about your coffee hour? Churches are notorious for offering coffee after service and leaving the visitor sitting or standing alone.
Hospitality welcomes meaningful participation. New people can feel new forever when their ideas are not welcomed and when the same work-horses are used every time for serving meals or volunteering.
Hospitality means we will not only be kind to a stranger but we will help them to be at home in our family, getting to know their gifts and interests. It means understanding their challenges and heartaches. We will care about them as persons rather than seeing them as our next contributing member.
The very finest way for people to feel comfortable and at home in your church is when you invite someone to come to church with you. The best way to recruit new people is through personal invitation. All of us are called to engage in church growth and evangelism.
On a personal note, I say a special thank you to all the congregations and private homes that opened their doors to me. Many people escorted me around, provided meals and accommodation. You have been clear examples of Christian hospitality.
