Toolbox For Faith

A conversation with a former member and a question from a colleague inspired me to give some thought to the way in which we welcome new worshipers into the life of the congregation.  Coming out of seminary, I adopted the fairly standard model of new member classes.  I found good models to copy and did them because “that was what I was supposed to do.”  Through the years, I have had limited success with the new member class.  This week, I came to the conclusion that what you do for new worshipers should be a direct reflection of who you are as a congregation.

If you are a high challenge, high commitment congregation with a heavy emphasis on formal membership, then by all means have several classes with specific topics to be covered and introductions to make.  If however, you are a congregation focused around community and compassion, for example,  feel free to try another path.  At St. Michael, we got rid of the classes and moved to a meal.  We have an individual from the congregation who hosts the meal (usually groups of 10 or less).  I attend and we simply talk with people and eat together.  Individuals make connections and tell stories.    As the meal is drawing to a close, we give the new worshipers a “Welcome to St. Michael” folder that has general information on our ministries.  I say a word or two about the information and then open it up to questions.  Over the last three years, we have had 30 to 40 people at meals like and most of them are actively involved in the congregation today.