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?

Creating Great Church Guest First Impressions

How you treat people who are new to your church can be the difference between your church growing or getting stuck.

Rediscover the Wonder of Christmas

Many years before the birth of Jesus Christ, God becoming a child, there was a prophecy in Isaiah 9:2, 6­­–7 that declared the coming of this child as the hope and wonder of this world.

Trinity Baptist Church: Follow the Clues

The children’s ministry at Trinity Baptist Church in Kerrville, Texas, created a gospel-centered escape room that was a big hit.