“Greater Things” Thursdays #2: “Welcome to Lebanon Road!”

[NOTE: The theme for 2011 at Lebanon Road is “Greater Things.” With that in mind, we are highlighting greater things each Thursday this year. Enjoy!]

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“Welcome!” “Good morning.” “We’re glad you’re with us today.” “Good to see you.”

Those words are spoken over and over each week at Lebanon Road. We do not have any sort of “organized” welcoming committee, and I’m glad to say that we don’t really need one! Every congregation likes to say that they are friendly, but every time I visit or talk with someone who has visited Lebanon Road, they say, “That is the friendliest place I’ve ever been. They made me feel so welcome.”

We are blessed to have folks who get here early and make sure that every person who comes in the door gets a heartfelt, warm welcome. “Mr. Lee” greets folks at the door and helps those who need a little assistance walking in all the help they need. Other members stand around in the lobby and make sure that every visitor gets a handshake and a kind word. Our young adults have two folks in the lobby each week to greet visitors, especially those who are younger.

It is my goal to be present at least 15 minutes early and to shake as many hands as possible, while always doing my best to greet every visitor. I’m just thankful that I’m not the only one who does this!

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Now for “Greater Things!” I would like to see three things happen to ensure even greater friendliness:

1. More members greeting visitors that come in and sit near them. It is so easy to speak to the same folks that sit around us, but we need to make sure we welcome visitors who sit near us.

2. More members getting there early. I know there are going to be weeks when we run late. (With little kids, I really understand!!!) But we should not be running in at the last minute every week! Make a special effort to get to worship just 5 minutes earlier, and you’ll be amazed at how you can spot visitors and greet them.

3. More invitations. By this I mean that I would like to see more visitors invited to sit with members, to attend class after our worship services, or even to go eat afterward. Those “little” invitations make a world of difference!

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If you have never been to Lebanon Road, you need to visit! It truly is a friendly and warm congregation, but we are continuing to strive for even “Greater Things!”