Every week I call every person who visits our church and fills out a Connection Card.  The vast majority of these cards come from people who were invited here by someone–a family member, co-worker, neighbor or an acquaintance from school or a community activity.  A couple times a year, we like to give our congregation the chance to invite someone in their lives to church, and we call that “Friend Sunday”.  

This weekend we will have a special service with music, baptisms, and a message on “Generations” that we are planning!  We’re also taking steps to give the morning an extra-warm time for new people to feel welcomed.  Below is a list of some of the steps we’re taking:

• Communications should happen to each of the First Impression team members that describes the importance of this day and the value of being on the lookout for unfamiliar faces and those that seem to be ‘lost’ or ‘looking for something’
• First Impressions teams should also be informed that many first-time guests do not arrive on time and they should be on the lookout for those that arrive late and greet them as warmly as others and help them find their way 
• Early Childhood should also be fully staffed and the team should understand that they should convey confidence and help parents feel comfortable dropping their children off (also be on the lookout for new faces and those that seem uncomfortable dropping children off)
• EVERYONEwho has been given a lanyard should be wearing it on Sunday and be aware, like the First Impressions and Early Childhood folks, of those who are new
• There will be free coffee/tea/flavored water along with Donut Holes in the lobby staffed by students available before first and second services and after second service
• Leather couches will be in the lobby to make a couple of comfortable, cafe style settings
• Popcorn and Lemonade will be available in the gym after first and second service
• We will have games and activities for children in the gym along with some other things that engage adults (photo booth, information table about Adventure Station or other ministries, etc.)
• There will be Chick-fil-A coupons given to 1st time guests