Podcast Episode #265

Its rare to find a church who doesn't think they are friendly. But don't be fooled, not all churches are friendly. They just think they are.

Some highlights from today's episode include:

* Many churches are not friendly because the people are in holy huddles.

* You have to have an eye for those you do not know in the church if you want to be genuinely friendly.

* I know they're probably out there, but I've yet to meet a church guest who likes the stand-and-greet time.

* The stand-and-greet time can (and often does) become a substitute for genuine friendliness.

* Are your announcements in code or could someone unfamiliar with your church understand them?

* After the pastor, the first staff member I would hire is probably a children's minister.

* If your church wants to reach young families, you have to be reaching and ministering to their kids.

* Guest friendliness is an overflow of who you are the rest of the week.

The six reasons why churches really aren't friendly to guests are:

* The holy huddle syndrome.

* The stand-and-greet satisfier.

* The I-don’t-live-here reality.

* The insider language mystery.

* The unhappy kid/unhappy parent problem.

* The 6 + 1 dilemma.

Episode Sponsors

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Feedback

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Resources Mentioned in Today's Podcast

* Secret Guest Survey

* Church Facility Audit