View From The Stage...

We have a BIG problem that I would love to see us correct!

For some of you, it may not be that big of a deal. But for ANYONE trying to check out or connect to FBC Poky, we're missing the mark, BIG TIME!

We need to ramp up our game of greeting, meeting and knowing new folks. And I don't just mean at the welcoming time - which I may just stop doing - but I mean from start to finish. We too quickly jump into our circles and ignore - literally - anyone we don't know. We think someone else will catch them, connect with them. We assume that's the greeters job. Wrong assumption.

Our service is about God, for God and to God. But when He brings people in, we are expected to welcome them and do our very best to serve them. That could be as simple as offering a bulletin to them or getting to know them, making them feel welcome, special or important. We too often get concerned with connecting to the people we haven't seen all week, all at the expense of someone that God may have sent to meet a need.

So here's what I'm challenging you to do, starting this Sunday. Wherever you sit, look for people who you don't know. Before the service starts, take 2 minutes to introduce yourself and get to know a little about them. THEN, after the service, follow up with them again. Invite them to grab a cup of coffee and/or a treat in the back of the Worship Center.
In short, be intentional about connecting and making them feel special.

By the way, that first 2 minutes you have with them BEFORE the service - that will really dictate their actions IN worship. 'Do I feel welcome in this place? Is this a safe place to express myself? Is this a safe place to not be expressive?' You'd be surprised at the impact your contact has on people.

And I get to see it, both the good and the bad every week. It's quite the vantage point.

Step up your game this Sunday...make a connection and make a difference!

See ya in church...