52 ways to ignite your congregation-- practical hospitality by Hammer, Randy, 1955- instant download

52 ways to ignite your congregation-- practical hospitality by Hammer, Randy, 1955- instant download

ix, 101 p. ; 22 cm, Includes bibliographical references (p. 98-101), Anticipating first-time worshipers -- Understanding your purpose -- Writing a purpose/mission statement -- Personal invitation -- Friend day -- Newspaper ads and articles -- Newspaper flyers (inserts) -- Community visitation -- Telephoning -- Special programs and events -- Outdoor banners -- Attractive signage -- Beautifying the church grounds -- Door hangers -- Cable television service ads -- Ad in yellow pages -- Positive answering machine message -- Attractive, up-to-date website -- Brochures -- Mass mailings -- Thirty special Sundays per year -- Supporting it all with prayer -- Making people feel welcome -- Visitor and handicap parking -- Signs to direct newcomers -- Handicap accessible facilities -- Enthusiastic greeters -- Clean, state-of-the-art classrooms -- Top-notch nursery and quality childcare -- Properly welcoming newcomers -- Positive, uplifting, expectant worship -- Enabling worshipers to sense the sacred -- Ritual of fellowship -- Verbal instructions for newcomers -- Newcomer-friendly worship bulletins -- Celebrative and colorful banners -- Offering excellent service music -- Attractive, up-to-date bulletin boards -- Coffee/followship time -- Providing genuine, loving community -- Seeing people return -- Worship service that offers hope (again!) -- Practical, interest-piquing messages -- Registration pads -- Connecting newcomers with others -- Brief follow-up visit by the laity -- Hospitality gift -- Letter or handwritten note -- Phone call from the pastor -- Encouraging small group involvement -- Sending the church newsletter -- Utilizing an online midweek message -- Assisting newcomers in exercising their gifts -- Living the law of love -- Staying true to your purpose statement