Here are 10 things we think are great for anyone to do upon arriving at a new church… see how many you can tick off!
1. Introduce yourself to people already at the church. They’re probably not as old and scary as they seem (some, I must admit, are) and would love get to know you. You don’t have to wait for them to make the first move.
2. Speak to the pastor/leader or equivalent. Find out their vision for the church and their key values.
3. Maximise your ‘new-ness’. Get as many student lunches and welcome packs as you can!!
4. Go along to a mid-week small group.
5. Invite your non-Christian friends along – it’s a great habit to get into early.
6. Serve. Join welcome, worship, ministry, set-down teams – whatever’s going! Not only are you helping the church but it’s a great way to get to know people better.
7. Keep your eye out for any socials or other welcome events
8. Find out if your church does any kind of outreach ministry and get involved if you can
9. Ask lots of questions. Find out why the church does things the ways it does, especially if you’re unsure.
10. Pray for your church; for its leaders, for its members, for everything!
(c) Vinelife/Ralph Pedley 2008 (permission required)
