GETTING THEM AND KEEPING THEM
Our Convention is made up primarily of smaller churches. However, it seems that all churches no matter the size are confronted with some of the same challenges. Perhaps the greatest challenge for any of us is how to reach the unchurched and keep them as regular attenders and worshipers. Is there some great secret to getting it done that actually works? Why is it that some pastors and churches are successful and others struggle just to maintain what they have?
Perhaps a fresh reminder of basic actions a church can and should take will help us get better results. First, the church must GO AFTER THEM. Every church must be “people conscious” and “people focused” if we are to find and reach new people. This focus must be led by the pastor who constantly keeps this emphasis before the congregation. Members are encouraged to seek out and invite their own families, friends, neighbors, people at work and those our children attend school with and their families. It is proven that people will attend if invited over and over again.
Second, the church must RECEIVE THEM WARMLY. I have mentioned several times in previous blogs the age old adage, “you don’t get a second chance to make a good first impression.” In the smaller church, the success of making a good first impression is tied to the role of the pastor and other key leaders. The proper welcome, acknowledgement, and treatment of newcomers cannot be overemphasized. Whether or not our first time guests ever return hinges on the way we receive them. Treat guests as family! Get to know them, become a friend to them, find ways to minister to them, and genuinely love them.
Third, OFFER A QUALITY WORSHIP EXPERIENCE! The worship service should not have any segment that would tend to put newcomers on the spot or embarrass them. Make sure everyone who is to be involved in leading worship is ready and all equipment is checked out in advance. Every aspect of the worship service should be given the very best we have. All we have done throughout the week culminates during the time of worship. Too much is at stake to half-heartedly plan the worship service.
Fourth, DO FOLLOW-UP AND DO IT RIGHT! Gary McIntosh, in his book “Beyond The First Visit” suggests five principles of follow-up. 1. A friendly contact…..offer your friendship. Take care not to offend new people. 2. A personal contact…..nothing takes the place of a personal touch in our lonely world. 3. A prompt contact….contact guests within twenty-four hours. The longer we wait, the less effective the results. 4. A nonthreatening contact…..Put the guest at ease and realize guests have a natural uneasiness about new places and people. 5. A continual contact……Follow-up is a process, not an event. A onetime contact is not enough to be effective in our present environment.
These are steps all of us can take to be well on our way to getting new people and keeping them. Try it in your church!