What Kind of Impression do Visitors Have of Your Church?

The Impression

A while back I thought I would make a good impression and surprise my wife with a candle light dinner for two. Because it was our anniversary dinner, I wanted to create the perfect atmosphere for her to enjoy. To do that I made sure that everything was just right. I picked some background music to set the mood. I’d say I pulled out all the stops from the lighting to the table setting to make the evening memorable.  When my wife came home, she was surprised and impressed with how carefully I had planned everything. Mission accomplished – we had a wonderful night together. She was impressed!

If we expect people visiting our church to feel welcome it will take some planning too! What are some areas to be concerned about?

The Up-keep

I think it begins the moment we drive onto the church property. That’s the first thing I notice. Is the property well kept? A freshly mowed lawn and beautiful planted flowers go a long way when it comes to making a good first impression. Also, a well maintained building is a must as well. When was the last time the exterior of the church was painted or the bathrooms remolded? A few churches I served in had tile floors. So many people would complement us on how clean and glassy they looked. People notice details!

The Lobby

I think the lobby is just as important in making visitors feel welcome too. So, how inviting does it feel?  Does the lobby have decent lighting or even better – natural light? How much room is available for people move around and fellowship? I think a sitting area is approiate. Maybe people will arrive earlier or stay later if it has a homier feel. How often do we refer to our church as our “church home.”

Many a church has tried to create a friendly atmosphere by having greeters at the door, ushers to seat people as well as  refreshments in the lobby. But we all know church isn’t really about cookies, coffee, flashy screens or “ambiance” or even upbeat music. Instead, it should be a place of worship where Christ is exalted, believers are refreshed and souls are brought to Christ. Yes, it is good to be hospitable, but people should be coming to church to worship the Lord not for the refreshments.

The People

When I visit a church for the first time I’m watching the people. Are they interested in greeting me and my family when we walk through the door. How do the members of the church participate in the service? Do they sing? Do they bring their Bibles to church? How do they respond to the message during the invitation? Is it it like a true church family?

The Leadership

I can also  get a good impression of a church by looking carefully at those in leadership. It starts with the pastor and works its way down. Does he the make any effort to welcome or introduce himself to me before or after the service?

If it’s a larger church are those on his staff (youth pastor, assistant pastor, music pastor) friendly, cheerful and enthusiastic. Have they made an effort to greet visitors or introduce you to others. I believe leaders set the example to follow and also set the pace of the ministry.

Leadership doesn’t stop with the church staff. It includes everyone who sets foot on the platform, including the choir, pianist, organist and even special music participants.  Everyone leader plays a vital role in what the congregation’s impression is in the end. Realizing the importance of church leadership, I would be careful when selecting those who stand behind the pulpit. For that reason I would consider holding them to a high standard.

What kind of impression do visitors have of your church services?