I was a visitor on Sunday. I don’t get to visit other churches very often because our family is usually involved with some Sunday-morning event at our home church. However, this past Sunday my daughter was invited to play flute for another congregation, and I got to be the visitor! Something happened that made a good impression on me, and I’m writing about it as food for thought.
Our family had a wonderful experience at this church. A friendly man welcomed us as soon as we stepped into the building, and a shy young boy handed us service folders. I noticed several very attractive displays publicizing the Christian school this church helps to support.
Then it happened. Just before the worship service began, the pastor welcomed us and explained the displays in the entrance. The church was using this Sunday to celebrate being involved with the Christian school. As he talked on behalf of the congregation, thanking the teachers and staff and announcing to everyone present how grateful this congregation is to be part of the school, I realized in amazement that this 5-minute time of recognition made me comfortable to be there and showed me the heart of the people there.
Pastors, I know that the time leading to Easter is filled to the brim with special services and extra sermons to write and all of your regular duties on top of that, but I encourage you to take a few minutes of your time to think about what you could “announce” that would help visitors to see the heart of your congregation.
Could you express appreciation for your Sunday superintendent and staff and the tremendous gifts of time and relationship they give your congregation? Could you invite visitors to attend Sunday school as part of your announcement? Could you thank those who decorated the church for Easter? And use that announcement to mention that there are lots of ways to serve the Lord at your church? Maybe you have a large church staff. Could you use a few moments to tell everyone–out loud–what a privilege it is to belong to such a Christ-focused team?
