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?

Pantano Christian Church: A Change of Life

Making people feel welcome is everyone’s job. Pantano sees a wide diversity in the congregation across nearly every demographic: ethnicity, race, socioeconomic, etc.

The Comeback Church: Seizing the Cultural Moment

Take another look at what Jesus said: “I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.”

Addicted to More

Around half of evangelicals say they find their own measure of success and worth in obtaining more things.