I am proud to be Southern Baptist and to have belonged to several wonderful church families. My daughter, granddaughters, and I have recently moved and are in search of a new church home. This process has opened my eyes to several things that I, as a church member, and we, as church families, need to do. Here are some observations after visiting more than 10 Southern Baptist churches in our area:
In only two churches did anyone offer us nursery services. In one of those, an usher greeted us as we came in, took us to the nursery, and then seated us with the assurance that if we were needed, he would come get us. In another church, the nursery worker greeted us, introduced herself, and assured us our little ones would be cared for. These acts of welcome and kindness caused me to reflect on my attitude when I have had nursery duty.
In most of the churches we have visited, someone gives a welcome from the pulpit and asks visitors to identify themselves in some way (raised hand, staying seated, etc.). Most of these churches have been small, and I felt sure it was obvious who was visiting. Often the person giving the greeting says, “We don’t want to embarrass anyone.” Well then, don’t! I am more likely to fill out a visitor’s card that is in the pew rack or the bulletin.
Sad to say, but in a few churches, no one spoke to us. If I, as a member of the body of Christ, didn’t feel welcome, how is an unbeliever to feel?
Thanks to those churches who provide pew Bibles, but shouldn’t we be offering Bibles to visitors who might not own one?
Since we moved here six months ago, only one person (outside of family) has invited me to church. I have had to ask myself when was the last time I invited a newcomer to church?
I hope that when we find the new church home God has for us, I will be responsive to showing the love of Christ in new ways.
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