Idea Starter: Make Newcomers Feel Genuinely Welcome

When you contact newcomers after their first visit, ditch the “thanks for visiting” form letter for something better—possibly handwritten. Better yet, if they’ve indicated it’s OK, give them a phone call or deliver a small “thank you” gift. Ask a church member who loves to bake to head up a pie or baking ministry for that express purpose. When a newcomer attends, follow up with a fresh-baked pastry delivered to them with a smile and a no-pressure thank you for their presence.

James P. Long
James P. Longhttp://JamesPLong.com

James P. Long was formerly the editor of Outreach magazine and the author of a number of books, including Why Is God Silent When We Need Him the Most?

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