Pray for a welcoming culture

By Kyle Nielsen

“So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, especially those who are in the house of faith”

-Galatians 6:10

“For as I have given you an example, that you also should do just as I have done to you”

-John 13:15

“This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you”

-John 15:12

“We welcome people to make them feel welcomed as Christ has welcomed us.”

The welcome ministry is a key area in the local church. Prior to hearing the Gospel preached, the welcome ministry gathers to help guide people into the church and make them feel welcomed. Our mission statement (mentioned above) works together with our benediction, “Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God” (Romans 15:7). The shared focus is to welcome others as Christ welcomed you and me. Christ did that by being present: showing preference to the outcasts and faithful alike (Luke 13:10-17, Mark 6:21-43, Matthew 9:9-13). 

For the welcome ministry, prayer is an important facet in serving. Prior to Sunday mornings when we gather as a corporate body to worship God and hear the Word preached, the welcome ministry prays for the church body and the lost to follow God’s call to Himself. That call, or the Holy Spirit working, is what brings people into the church. Researchers that focus on the welcome ministry have found that the first 7-minutes is all that it takes for most people to determine if they will return to a specific church or not. The first 7-minutes are often finding a parking spot, walking to the front door, walking into the lobby, and seeing friends; after this point is when seats are found, and worship begins as a corporate body. 

So those first 7-minutes are where the welcome ministry can alleviate fears, concerns, nerves; and replace them with a smile, kindness, a greeting, and acceptance. Serving in the church is an honor that we can partake in. Being a faithful disciple includes serving the church. Disciples follow Christ’s example and His commands. 

How then can the church pray for the welcome ministry? 

Areas of prayer can be for soft hearts for those coming into the church. The peace that takes down barriers, and for more disciples to serve in this important area of ministry. Whether someone is an introvert or an extrovert, they can serve. Finally, pray for all the interactions that are had at church and outside of church among believers and unbelievers, so that God will be glorified.