6 Ways to Make Your Church More Welcoming

The recent pandemic hamstrung many efforts for churches to expand and bring in new attendees and members. Congregations diminished and some shut down entirely due to a lack of staffing and funds. Now that the world is on the other side, most churches are in the process of regrowth, looking for ways to expand and appeal to the next generation of young adults.

However, pulling in new people is much more complicated than it looks. Then you also have to face the problem of keeping them coming back once you get them in the door. You don’t have much time to make an impression, so you must ensure you stand out as a welcoming environment.

If you’re to spread the gospel’s good news to the masses, you need to bring them in with open arms and hearts. These tips can help you prepare your church and provide the best experience for first-time attendees and early returners.

1. Post Clear Signage

While you may find it easy to find the sanctuary, nursery, bathrooms and classrooms, visitors may need more guidance. Take a hard look at your building and grounds from a firstcomer’s point of view.

Don’t rely solely on word of mouth and helpful greeters to get people where they need to go. Direct people with helpful signage from the moment they pull into the parking lot. They should know where to park, where to enter and how to navigate to the essential rooms.

2. Set Out Refreshments

Nothing warms the heart like Christ and a cup of coffee or cocoa. Before heading into the service or directly after, have a coffee cart and some easy snacks for anyone who’d like to have some fellowship. A comfortable seating area can take this welcoming treat a step further by providing accessible spots to lounge and get to know each other.

To ease the burden on your church’s budget, you could ask members if they’d be willing to sign up for a Sunday to provide the refreshments. This also gives your long-time attendees a chance to participate in the church’s ministries.

3. Create a Homey Atmosphere

The way your church looks sends many intentional and unintentional messages to your guests. You should prioritize keeping your public areas clean — dust and cobwebs tell visitors you don’t care enough or have enough time to keep up with your building. On a more positive note, including small decorative touches like fresh flowers, flameless candles and soft seating can make your church feel more homey and inviting.

4. Provide Convenient Services

Visitors will assess the church’s whole package, including the services you provide. If you have enough members or staff at your disposal, it would be ideal to accommodate as many of these offerings as possible.

Cater your services to your ideal target group. When you’re looking to bring in more families, you should consider nursery, Sunday school and youth programs. Young adults may be looking for opportunities to connect with others their age. Keep this in mind when deciding how best to welcome and maintain your flock.

5. Host Events for the Public

Belonging to a church is about so much more than going to service on Sunday. Show the community your other sides by hosting events open to the public. Block parties are a fun way to get families into the church. Have games and free food for everyone. As a welcome gift, give every family a bag with the church logo and easily digestible pamphlets on the gospel and programs for adults and children your church offers.

Another excellent outreach opportunity is to host monthly dinners for the community. Everything should be free, so people don’t feel obligated to give. Many churches love a dish-to-pass meal supported by regular attendees, but guests may feel uncomfortable when they don’t bring anything. Instead, use church funds to provide simple dinners or ask members to take turns donating ingredients.

6. Skip the Dress Code

One thing many newcomers worry about when visiting a new church is the manner of dress. Many people will assume you need to dress in suits and dresses to attend church, especially those who haven’t participated since they were little or only know church from TV and movies.

In your marketing efforts, you could make it clear you’re a “come as you are” congregation. Easing up on the dress code will help visitors feel more comfortable — they can wear whatever feels good to them and not be afraid of standing out from the crowd.

Welcoming New Members Into Your Congregation

While all of the tips will help you create a welcoming atmosphere, you need to walk a careful line. Getting caught up in the details of how everything will work and getting stuck in preparation mode is the wrong focus. While signs and services are vital, human connection and demonstrating the Father’s love will go the farthest in reaching God’s chosen than keeping a stocked coffee cart and giving out welcome bags.