Are churches scary places full of strange people doing even stranger things when everyone else is still having breakfast?

It’s a shame, but lots of people think that.  That’s why we think it’s important at St John’s that people are made to feel welcome if they come to church.

One of the best things about our church building is the glass doors that allow people to see what’s going on before they set foot inside.  It takes away some of the mystery and trepidation that people can have when they go to church for the first time—or for the first time in a long time.

Even better is the team of Welcomers who regularly take turns to make sure that everyone arriving at St John’s has a warm welcome.

It’s not a difficult task. In fact the most difficult part is arriving by 9.30 on a Sunday morning ready to smile.  (Coffee usually helps with this!)  Then, as people arrive, the Welcomers say good morning, hand them a service sheet and show them to their seats.

Any elderly or disabled people might need a hand getting into church and helping to get buggies and prams up the steps is always appreciated.

After the service it’s great to introduce yourself to any newcomers you’ve noticed.  At St John’s there is always someone new—it could be someone coming to see what we’re like, visitors or tourists from the many hotels in our area.

Being a Welcomer at St John’s isn’t just a great way to meet people—it’s an essential part of our ministry.  God welcomes all into his love and it’s our job to play our part in that.  For us, our inclusive welcome is at the heart of what it is to be God’s people.  As we extend that welcome to others we’re showing in our lives what we believe to be true about God.

If you’d like to join the Welcomers team then come along on a Sunday morning and talk to whoever welcomed you!