the tragedy of the neglected visitor

Every so often I need to repeat this story to our members (for obvious reasons).  It comes from an article titled "How Does Your Church Rate?"

 A man visited 18 different churches on successive Sundays. He was trying to find what the churches were really like.  He said, "I sat in the front during the service and after it was over I went to the rear and then back to the front using another aisle. I smiled and was neatly dressed. I asked one person to direct me to a specific place—a fellowship hall, minister’s study, etc. I remained for coffee if served. I used a scale to rate the reception I received.  Points were awarded on the following basis:
            
10 for a smile from a worshipper            
10 for a greeting from someone sitting nearby            
100 for an exchange of names            
200 for an invitation to have coffee            
                                                    200 for an invitation to return           
                                                    1000 for an introduction to another worshipper           
                                                    2000 for an invitation to meet the pastor

 On this scale, 11 of the 18 churches earned fewer than 100 points. Five actually received less than 20 points. The conclusion: The doctrine may be biblical, the singing may be inspirational, the sermon may be uplifting, but when a visitor finds no one who cares whether he’s there or not, he is not likely to come back.”

I wonder how we would rate at CCF.  What experience are our visitors having?  Does everyone at CCF realize how crucial being friendly is?  Have people seeking Christ ever felt ignored and rejected in our midst and given up on Christ? Remember, our church is only as warm and friendly as you are. How many points did you rack up with our visitors last Sunday? More importantly, how many will you earn next Sunday?


 

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