Communications
Our Hearts, Our Minds, Our Doors are Always Open

The United Methodist Churches' Communications program of Igniting Ministry involves strategies designed to ensure visitors are welcomed.  Below is a description of findings regarding church visitors:

What Are First-Time Visitors Looking For?

After the first visit, a decision to return is a result of five factors, in this order:

1.  The Friendliness and Warmth of the Church

A study by the United Methodist Church found that when both unchurched and churched people are asked what they look for in a church, all agree on one factor--the climate of the congregation.  They are looking for a church in which they feel at home, where the people are friendly, and where there is a warm and comfortable atmosphere.  This attitude is primarily conveyed 1) when visitors first enter the building, and 2) when the formal service is over, and people begin to leave.  Church members need to understand the need to approach and welcome anyone they do not recognize, or who appears to be alone.

2.  The Character of the Worship Service

The issues reflecting on the character of the worship service are:

Is it authentic?  People want to experience the presence of God.  They are looking for clarity and guidance to know what is right, and power to do it.

Does it echo with the notes of grace?  People already know they are sinners.  They don't need to be convinced of that.  What they need is affirmation of the reality and depth of God's love for them.

Is the worship celebrative?  Worship is meant to be an uplifting experience that enables people to leave the service strengthened and equipped for life.

3.  A Place for Children

Recent studies show that visitors perceive the needs of their children as a major factor in a decision to find a church.  Churches that provide opportunities for children will be effective in attracting these people.

4.  The Adult Program

one way to involve unchurched adults is to offer involvement opportunities in which they can participate.  Athletic events, classes, musical or fitness groups, and social gatherings can be designed to include unchurched people.

5.  The Church Building

Your location and structure are fixed and, thus, not a factor you can change in your visitor attraction strategy.  True?  Only partially.  It's important to know what it is about your facility that attracts or deters visitors.  Four key question are:

Is your church visible?
Is your church accessible?
What is the condition of the property?
Do you have adequate space?

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The 2000 Oklahoma Annual Conference expanded and enhanced the role of the Conference Department of Communications in order to ensure that the local church becomes the primary mission station of the Conference.  The Lawton District has designated a District Communications Officer and Centenary has appointed a local Church Communications contact person to develop this process of two-way communications envisioned by the Conference.

Please refer to the links above for more information regarding the Church, District, and Conference Communications plan of action.