Why Churches Really Aren’t Friendly to Guests

Podcast Episode #265Its rare to find a church who doesn't think they are friendly. But don't be fooled, not all churches are friendly. They just think they are.Some highlights from today's episode include: * Many churches are not friendly because the people are in holy huddles. * You have to have an eye for those you do not know in the church if you want to be genuinely friendly. * I know they're probably out there, but I've yet to meet a church guest who likes the stand-and-greet time. * The stand-and-greet time can (and often does) become a substitute for genuine friendliness. * Are your announcements in code or could someone unfamiliar with your church understand them? * After the pastor, the first staff member I would hire is probably a children's minister. * If your church wants to reach young families, you have to be reaching and ministering to their kids. * Guest friendliness is an overflow of who you are the rest of the week.The six reasons why churches really aren't friendly to guests are: * The holy huddle syndrome. * The stand-and-greet satisfier. * The I-don’t-live-here reality. * The insider language mystery. * The unhappy kid/unhappy parent problem. * The 6 + 1 dilemma.Episode SponsorsAre you getting prepared for the changing ministry landscape? Get your Master of Divinity degree at Midwestern Seminary. The M.Div—Midwestern’s flagship degree program—is their primary track for ministry preparation. At just 81 hours, the Midwestern M.Div offers a complete foundation for full-time ministry leaders, offering everything you need, and nothing you don’t. Join other students in vibrant Kansas City as you train in a unique collaborative environment focused on the local church or study online in your current ministry context. Midwestern Seminary is developing a new culture of discipleship devoted to the local church and committed to taking God’s unchanging Word into a rapidly changing world. Join the movement today.Find out more at mbts.edu/mdiv.Vanderbloemen Search Group is the premier pastor search firm dedicated to helping churches and ministries build great teams. They’ve helped hundreds of churches just like yours find their church staff and are uniquely geared to help you discern who God is calling to lead your church.Find out more about Vanderbloemen Search Group by visiting WeStaffTheChurch.com.FeedbackIf you have a question you would like answered on the show, fill out the form on the podcast page here on Church Answers.Resources Mentioned in Today's Podcast * Secret Guest Survey * Church Facility Audit