Welcoming Visitors

You never get a second chance to make a first impression. Nowhere is this phrase more accurate than in the church. These brief and practical handouts equip your congregation to welcome visitors and make them feel at home. You'll explore what works and what does not work when welcoming visitors, and there are specific handouts for greeters and ushers, two important visitor ministries. Each handout can be used at a meeting with your team or to pass out individually to those looking for guidance. This 22-page resource offers biblical reflection, wisdom from experienced pastors, and practical tips on how to ensure visitors feel welcome when they visit your church. Table of Contents: What the Unchurched See Put yourself in the shoes of the first-time visitor to our church. Thom Rainer The Right Kind of Welcome Visitors fear being embarrassed, overwhelmed, or ignored. David Zimmerman Attracting the Outsiders Take a low-pressure approach to non-traditional visitors. Don Cousins Why They Don't Come Back Visitors can be turned off by behavior, buildings, and disorder. Calvin Ratz Why They Do Come Back Growing churches meet the needs of newcomers. Calvin Ratz Greeter Tips The first face a greeter sees is looking for a warm, genuine welcome. Marc S. Botts Facility as Ministry Facility issues can actually be ministry issues. James Rodgers Ask the Right Questions Consider the questions visitors will be asking. David Zimmerman Becoming an Inclusive Church Sometimes we unintentionally exclude people from the church. Rich Nathan Connecting with Young Adults These nine traits characterize churches that reach young adults. Thom Rainer