Volley # 15

Volley # 15: HOW DO PEOPLE KNOW?

If I’ve never been to worship in a congregation, how do I know when worship is? How do I know where to park? How do I know if there is Sunday School, or something for my children? How do I know which door to enter?

It takes multiple efforts to convey these ideas.

• Is the telephone answering message friendly, clear, and free of Episcopalese jargon? Some people suggest a female voice, since the one making the call is likely to be female.

• Is the key information, like service time, given quickly?

• Is the main entrance clearly marked as such? Entrance to children’s classes and nursery?

• How about the entrance members actually use instead of the front door?

• Is parking identified? Special, convenient parking for guests?

• Is someone stationed outside the church to welcome and direct guests?

• Are there trained greeters who have a knack for making people feel welcome and comfortable?

Some of these items just require an attractive, well-placed sign to remedy. Some require trained volunteers. All are easy and quick to deal with. Together, they identify your congregation as one that has its mind on the needs of others, not just its own members.