What brings someone to Christ, to church and what helps them stay?
How would you answer regarding your own journey with Him?
I’m fascinated what we communicate to people, in our words and actions, and how it’s received. What motivates people to give God a go?
I asked some newcomers at our church what attracted them and what’s made them stay. A man who comes along with his wife and little girl, told me that in response to all the turmoil in the world, they needed some joy.
That joy is evident as the congregation worships and together they are discovering the goodness of God is available for their family too.
Another newbie, a woman, saw a Facebook reel about an Ash Wednesday service. This particular service synched with her work schedule and so she found the courage and went. The worship leader said: “Please stand if you are able.” As someone with chronic migraines, this really chimed with her, as her seated worship was declared equally valid. She has since been baptised.
The third newcomer came because of a parade service with cubs and scouts. He was surprised by the easy-going atmosphere and how no one blinked when the children weren’t quiet.
After many years of absence from church, he felt God drawing him back in. He has felt loved and accepted and his trust is being restored.
What do we learn from these stories?
For me, I learn that as a community we can prayerfully try to get our publicity right, to take time to connect and welcome people and be accepting. However, in every situation, the Holy Spirit has been at the heart of drawing people in and helping them find courage to discover more.
Some plant, some water but God himself makes it grow, says 1 Cor 3: 6-9. What a joy to find ourselves in a team with the Lord of the harvest.
Now, call me greedy, but I’m praying for more.