When Angels Visit

When searching for a church to attend, many of our leads come from Bob’s driving around and making notes that (in his words) look like they were written by a chicken on drugs. We spent a good portion of today deciphering those notes and making a new list of places to worship.

This week we thought we’d use this space to point out a few things we’ve learned in our visits, most of which we never would have considered when we were members.

Visitors are hampered when a church does not have a website. Some churches do not have a phone or an answering machine where the greeting can provide such general information as worship times or where a caller can leave a message or ask a question. These are hindrances for those seeking a church, and many will pass.

Churches should regularly put some time into reviewing their communications, giving thought to exactly what they want to communicate and to whom. Members know which door to use, where the restrooms are, and what’s down the hall. The visitor is lost. I (Bob) once climbed a set of stairs looking for the sanctuary and came out in the choir loft; thankfully for all they didn’t make me sing.

Consider whether the outdoor signage is of value to a visitor. Some churches have a large sign that cannot be read by someone driving by. If they must turn into the driveway to read the sign, many have likely passed by.

Does your sign list the meetings this week or does it display a come-on that makes someone want to come in to learn more? Is the sign up-to-date or are the Christmas worship services still listed at Easter? Are the correct worship times shown? If passers-by notice the sign, you’re halfway there…make sure the message they see brings them inside.

Worship in the Park / Picnic Sunday is a great time for church fellowship, but are visitors welcome? The signs on the church doors indicating that “worship is in the park today” are only for members unless they include directions to where you are.

Visitors are usually easy to spot. Watch who parks in the visitor spots, notice who is looking at the bulletin boards or literature table…members almost never do. Is someone you don’t recognize sitting where a particular member always sits? Do they look lost?

If you are looking for fresh eyes, ask a relative or friend who is not familiar with your church to come and provide candid feedback about their experience.

God brings visitors to your door. If you see someone you don’t recognize, take the time to smile, say hello, and ask if you can be of assistance. I never had a long-time member who was offended when I asked if I could help. Ask God to guide and help you and He will.