People we've never met....
I saw a post on the Conversation this week that some folks new in town attended our Sunday service, worshipped, sang, listened, and learned. I worry about what they learned. Here's someone who had never been in our worship center before and the left after the service, they left the building and not one of us said a word to them.... the entire hour and a half... none of us said hello, who are you, where are you from, want some coffee?
I think this reveals that we (the people in the seats) need to be more intentional about connecting with people we don't recognize. I think we need to be reminded regularly and even trained to get off our butts and reach out to some folks. "Meet and Greet" is obviously not doing it if this couple sat up front and had this experience. I know it doesn't happen by default. Being part of this community means my little contribution is needed every time I'm with the body. I can't just be like the plant in Little Shop of Horrors, "FEED ME!!!!" We'll never get a chance at connecting with some folks in our small groups if they don't get connected in some way when they visit us on Sundays.
This is not good. My Mom and Dad had the same experience the first time they visited.
If this is who we are, we need to change who we are.
Feeling a little convicted...
I think this reveals that we (the people in the seats) need to be more intentional about connecting with people we don't recognize. I think we need to be reminded regularly and even trained to get off our butts and reach out to some folks. "Meet and Greet" is obviously not doing it if this couple sat up front and had this experience. I know it doesn't happen by default. Being part of this community means my little contribution is needed every time I'm with the body. I can't just be like the plant in Little Shop of Horrors, "FEED ME!!!!" We'll never get a chance at connecting with some folks in our small groups if they don't get connected in some way when they visit us on Sundays.
This is not good. My Mom and Dad had the same experience the first time they visited.
If this is who we are, we need to change who we are.
Feeling a little convicted...
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Replies to This Discussion
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Permalink Reply by Bruce Caldwell on -
Wow, all this discussion is music to my ears! As for Brenda's last comment, I do make it a point to be at the front door as soon as both services let out so I can be there for an exit contact. It is a good way to make a last impression, plus I often connect with people leaving that I didn't connect with coming in. Brenda is right...we need more people doing this. One person can't cover four doors, plus I often get into a conversation with someone while ten other people slip out the doors.
Also, Kelley is right about the 3-5 minute window that visitors hang around. (I realize there are exeptions, Hazel! :-)) It is amazing to me how many people are out the front door within the FIRST MINUTE after the service ends (some of them are "regulars" not just visitors). I'm not saying the front door is the only place we should be available to "exit greet" the visitors, but it is one place.
Also, a name tag comment. There has been a lot of discussion about the "embarassment" of introducing yourself to someone who has been here a while. If they are wearing a name tag, this obviously isn't their first Sunday. If we ALL get into the habit of putting that name tag on when we first walk in, then the visitors and those attending for a short time will be more noticeable. It takes about 10-15 seconds to find your name tag and put in on. Some people don't or won't wear their name tag for whatever reason. Let's remember IT"S NOT ABOUT US! Wearing a name tag won't hurt you, and it could help a lot of other people.
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Commune...a night of worship and prayer at Woodland Park Community Church
June 10, 2012 from 7pm to 8:30pm
Come join us for a night of worship and prayer. We desire to gather as a community and draw near to our Savior. We will be having baptisms during the service as well. If you would like to be baptized, please contact the church office.See More
WPCC posted an eventCommune...a night of worship and prayer at Woodland Park Community Church
June 10, 2012 from 7pm to 8:30pm
Come join us for a night of worship and prayer. We desire to gather as a community and draw near to our Savior. We will be having baptisms during the service as well. If you would like to be baptized, please contact the church office.See More
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WPCC posted an eventBaby Dedications at Woodland Park Community Church
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