2.09.2009
I just had a talk with a pastor friend who started a new position last week at his church. He was almost in tears. He just had a bad run in with some people and it made him feel absolutely awful. He just didn't feel very accepted. He's pretty new to ministry in general and I gave him some kind words and helpful advice, but it made me think about another aspect of acceptance at churches...
How do the new people at your church feel?
I know other pastors who keep up with the blog and I wondered... When they walk through the door, what is their experience like? Do they feel welcome? Are they overwhelmed by 85 people telling them hello? Do they carry around a "new person" welcome bag that's more like a bright red signal flare saying, "Hey, I'm new here in case the look on my face wasn't enough." How do you communicate to people from the stage? Do you explain things so someone new feels comfortable?
I know we are constantly asking ourselves this question at Forefront, but there are always better ways to make someone feel accepted. Nobody needs to attack the newbs.
