During the summer, lots of people are visiting new areas and exploring churches, maybe even popping in to experience a service.
Robin Riordan, Churchwarden in Tidenham Parish, shares how the churches in Tidenham parish – St Luke’s in Tutshill, St Mary and St Peter’s in Tidenham, and St Michael and All Angels in Tidenham Chase – welcome people in and aim to make everyone feel included.
“Openness is at the heart of all three churches in the parish. We want anyone who comes in to feel like they are part of the church family. We are always happy to welcome new members and grow.
“We have a welcoming team, alongside sidespeople. There’s always someone greeting people as they arrive, and others who continue the welcome inside. When new people come through the door, several people will say hello and chat with them. We try to create a space where everyone feels noticed and at ease.
“We have coffee on offer after some services, to give people a chance to meet and chat. We also run activities in the community that are non-faith based, like coffee mornings, baby and toddler groups, Pilates in the church building, and music evenings. These are ways people can get to know the church without needing to come to a service first.
“We have strong links with our local primary school; the schoolchildren sometimes do assemblies at the church. The families become familiar with worship through combined activities like this.
“We make sure to be visible in the community through our website and Facebook page. Being approachable helps people feel comfortable reaching out or dropping in.
“Our goal is that when anyone walks through the doors, whether they come once or regularly, they feel welcome and part of something friendly and supportive.”
Do you have tips to share about how you make people feel welcome in your worshipping community? Email ku.gr1757645565o.coi1757645565dsolg1757645565@mosn1757645565asn1757645565
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