Becoming a Welcoming Church
Thom Rainer. Nashville: B&H Publishing, 2018. 101 pp. (Hardback).
Author Thom Rainer, former CEO of LifeWay, poses a question we can all easily answer: Would you return to a church where you didn’t feel welcome? Of course not. But aren’t we a friendly, welcoming church? The answer, according to Rainer’s research, is “Of course we are friendly … to each other.” Oops.
The book is a practical guide to doing just what the title promises. Rainer covers elements he deems necessary to attract visitors and keep them coming: devising a web site that is easy to navigate and up to date; displaying clearly marked signage; making sure the facility is clean and safe; and establishing procedures for welcoming guests, including a visitor center and greeters. The book also includes a facility audit and a secret guest survey.
This is just a brief overview of the information here. The author goes into some detail about all of his recommendations. My guess is every church would benefit from Rainer’s experience and helpful advice.
EDITOR’S NOTE: Martine Bates Fairbanks, Ed.D., reviews books and movies for The Alabama Baptist. She is a university professor and retired principal. She is a member of Central Baptist Church, Decatur.
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