Connect with the Disconnected in the Church
The Apostle Paul instructs, “Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God” (Romans 15:7). We are called by the Scriptures to reach out to our neighbors and the nations. As we engage in the work of evangelism and ministry, how can we engage ourselves and equip others in leading the church we serve to welcome others and help connect the “disconnected” in our church fellowship?
Here are Five Ways a Church Can Connect with the Disconnected:
Take advantage of the three-minute rule. Focus on reaching out to people who you do not know or appear to be disconnected for the first three minutes after/before the church service or activity. Be friendly and invite them to attend your group with you.
Make yourself available to people before and after worship services in the lobby areas of the church. Greet and reach out to those who appear to lack connections at church.
Know where groups meet and also provide a group information ‘concierge’ in a prime location. Have a person and a place to provide information on groups.
Invite people to a basic newcomers’ class or gathering. Providing a ‘next step’ opportunity for those attending is a way to also find out who has needs and may desire connecting.
Follow-up. Develop a follow-up protocol:
Have “greeters” serve to welcome people as they come into the parking lot and enter your facility.
Contact guests that Sunday night and thank them for visiting.
You can also have a team that actually delivers a gift bag to first time guests the very same Sunday. Our church did this and people were amazed that we took their attendance seriously (and quickly).
On Monday, the church sends out a letter thanking them and giving some helpful information.
Midweek, the pastor can send a handwritten card to the guests. You can do an email, but people may actually be pleasantly surprised when we take the time to “handwrite” a note.
Have a group leader contact them later in the week and invite them for the following Sunday.
Offer a “get-to-know-us” class, lunch, or breakfast on Sundays for newcomers.
I’m sure there are many other ideas and strategies that work very well. I just wanted to take a moment to highlight a few and encourage us to not grow weary in the work of helping connect people in church.
Many people living across the Commonwealth of Virginia need a church home. They need the Gospel. They need a family. They need a mission. They need Christ and His church! You are empowered by His Spirit for this work. Be strong and courageous…
Your brother in Christ,
BRIAN AUTRY
Executive Director
SBC of Virginia
P.S. As always, check out www.sbcv.org for upcoming events and other resources. If I can serve your church, please don’t hesitate to let me or our team know.