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Scott and Lizette talk with Dr. Thom Rainer about the impact churches can have when they become more intentional about connecting with their first time guests.
Churches addressing the issue of “the holy huddle”
Holy Huddle: when people who know each other gather together (instead of people who don’t know one another speaking to each other)
How can churches address the behavior of visiting guests choosing to sit by themselves?
Intentionality. Churches should be highly intentional with their welcoming ministries by encouraging people to seek out and sit down next to visitors and talk to them.
Relational intentionality with visitors applies to everyone–regardless of his or her personality. An introvert may need to step out of their comfort zone to reach out and help visitors feel welcome.
On the other hand, an extrovert might need to dial back their personality a little when talking with a visitor for the first time.
One of the best ways to help churches better understand their churches “culture of welcoming” is to let them see through outside eyes–feedback from a mystery guest who has never been to the church before.
How many guests do churches really have? Not as many as they used to but probably more than they realize.
Be sure to Tweet your questions and comments to us: @LifewayResearch and individually: @smcconn, @statsguycasey, and @lizettebeard. Join us next time for another edition of Keep Asking.
Additional resources:
- Becoming a Welcoming Church by Dr. Thom S. Rainer
- We Want You Here by Dr. Thom S. Rainer
