It’s difficult walking into a church for the first time for anyone, and new generations are especially difficult to not scare away. However, I believe there exist methods to conquer this hindrance.
What are the problems?
The past 20+ years of church history have been tumultuous with unjust beliefs and hate-filled bullhorn voices. This is a tough image to change.
Churches tend to be a sea of gray hair. People are friendly only to those they know, not welcoming to others. Many have a sour look etched permanently on their face, and a pleasant smile is beyond them. The sermons sometimes create a high ideal that leaves people feeling judged. Adults tend to be regarded as judgmental just because they have a long history of telling younger people how to behave. The atmosphere often makes people want to run for the door. It’s been this way for as long as I can remember.
If they have children, tell them how much you enjoy seeing them in the congregation (or have a place for them). Children’s laughing and antics are worth coming to church for.
A welcoming solution
Smile. Meet people and smile at them. Show you care. Tell them you’re glad they’re here. Make them feel welcome. Invite them to something special, or their children. Jesus’ people should be happy. Make them feel hospitality from yourself and reflecting Jesus. A friendly smile and a welcoming word mean a lot.
“Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around.” – Leo Buscaglia
Avoid criticism. Don’t overwhelm them with too many people. Just shake hands and smile.
Try this and let me know what happens:
Each week, have an older member of the congregation stand before everyone and say this:
“I was young once. I’m still young at heart.
“I had a lot of fun doing things that young people do. I haven’t forgotten those times.
“Here is a silly thing we did …. (Elaborate.)
“Another thing we did that got us in trouble was …. (Elaborate.)
“We all have done it. Now we’re a little older and we still like to have fun, but we’re wiser now and don’t get into as much trouble. All of us are far from perfect, and we understand.
“Please feel welcome. You’re among friends. We’re here for you.”
Share your faith if you wish, but don’t preach doctrine.
Maybe sing a popular song from your generation that meant a lot to you and explain why. One with a moral would be ideal.
Conclusion
Smiles are free. Give away as many as you can.
Think about what makes you feel welcome in a sea of strangers who seem unlike you. Do to others what you would want for yourself.
Probability Space
What probability spaces can we open in our minds to find ways to welcome others, especially the newer generation?
Potential Space
If you think creatively and allow your mind to wander and explore, what new thing do you think would make others feel welcome?
________________________
– Dorian
Our answer is God. God’s answer is us. Together we make the world better.
Restore and recreate. Take time to celebrate life. Laugh, sing, and dance regularly, even every day. Happy.
Bible scripture verses are New American Standard Version (NASB), unless noted.
Author and books
Appease the Volcano: What does God require from people? The voices of the ancients from many religions echo much of the same things: It starts with law, then mercy and forgiveness, then love.
The Prophetic Pattern: Ancient and Modern Prophecy: How to distinguish the intent of various types of prophecies and oracles, both ancient and modern.
Preparing For the Future Of Work and Education: Analysis of the kinds of jobs that AI and Robotics will displace, and the educational requirements for them. AI will replace or augment thirty percent of jobs. This is an in-depth analysis citing many authoritative sources.
Author Website: Dorian Scott Cole
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