My wife and I were invited to dinner with friends. It was the PERFECT invitation too. Our friends had been to this restaurant several times and they enjoyed it so much that they wanted us to enjoy it also. They told us the service was good and there were lots of gluten-free options, which made us happy because my wife has gluten sensitivities.
We arrived a few minutes early, but our friends were running a little behind. Even though the restaurant was mostly empty, we were told we couldn’t be seated until everyone was there. Our friends arrived and we were seated. The server came over and said that since we were late, we needed to get our entree orders in so as to not “disrupt the chef’s rhythm.”
From the moment we arrived, I felt as if we were an inconvenience to the restaurant rather than a welcomed guest. The rest of our dining experience didn't improve. I rarely do this, but I left a poor review on Google. The restaurant offered to treat us to dinner if we would come back again. I declined. Our experience was so unpleasant, I didn't want to subject myself to that again, even if it was free.
Why am I telling you this? Not to warn you about the restaurant, but to remind us that even a great invitation can go wrong if guests don’t feel truly welcomed.
Each Sunday, we have a chance to make every guest feel like they belong at church. Here’s how:
- Greet at least three people you don’t know. Look for someone standing alone or looking unsure. Introduce yourself and ask if they need help.
- Arrive a few minutes early. As you take your seat, look for anyone you don’t recognize and make them feel welcome by greeting them and introducing yourself.
Statistics show that people decide within 7 minutes of arriving at church whether they’ll come back. That’s before the music starts or the speaker gets on stage. The personal touch from all of us is what makes them want to return.
But people showing up one time isn’t enough. We want every guest to have a great experience that brings them back. That’s on all of us.
Let’s commit to making everyone feel welcome. Let’s show our guests church isn’t just a place to visit—it’s a place where they belong.
Blessings,
Pastor Jamey
