FA Memphis Connection: 5 Simple Ways to Move from 'Visitor' to 'Family' This Week in Memphis?

Walking into a new church can feel like being a tourist. You can move from visitor to family by engaging with our greeters, picking up a welcome gift, visiting the Connect Center, exploring volunteer opportunities, or joining our online community. We are ready to welcome you home.

Finding Your Place in the 901

If you have ever visited a new place and felt like an outsider, you know that the transition from "just visiting" to "belonging" is a significant one. In a city as vibrant and soul-filled as Memphis, we believe no one should have to walk their faith journey alone. Whether you are in Cordova, Bartlett, or joining us from across the globe, the heart of First Assembly Memphis (FA Memphis) is to turn handshakes into high-fives and visitors into family.

Research from the Barna Group suggests that a guest decides if they will return to a church within the first seven to ten minutes of their visit. That is why we prioritize hospitality from the moment you pull into the parking lot. We don't just want you to attend a service; we want you to find a home.

Step	Action	Benefit
1	Meet a Greeter	Personalized navigation and a warm welcome.
2	Grab a Gift	A tangible token of our appreciation for your visit.
3	Visit the Connect Center	Clear answers to your questions and next steps.
4	Explore Volunteering	Use your unique God-given talents to serve others.
5	Bridge to Boundless	Stay connected even when you can't be here in person.

---

1. Let Our Greeters Be Your Guide

The first face you see matters. Our greeter team isn't just there to open doors; they are there to open the way for you to feel comfortable. If you aren't sure where the kids' check-in is or where to find the best cup of coffee in the lobby, just ask.

Moving from visitor to family starts with a simple introduction. Many of our long-term members started their journey by asking a greeter, "Where do I go from here?" Don't be afraid to let us walk with you, literally.

2. Pick Up Your 'First-Time Guest' Gift

We know it takes courage to visit a new church. To say "thank you" for choosing to spend your Sunday with us, we have a special gift waiting for you. This isn't just a bag of swag; it’s our way of saying that you are seen and valued.

You can find these at our Connect Center in the main lobby. It’s the easiest way to break the ice. When you drop off your Connection Card, you’re not just giving us data; you’re starting a conversation.

3. Visit the Connect Center for 'Next Steps'

The lobby can be a busy place, but the Connect Center is your "calm in the storm." This is the hub for everything happening at FA Memphis. Whether you want to learn about upcoming events, sign up for weekly emails, or find out about our mid-week ministries, the Connect Center team is ready to help.

Moving toward "family" means moving toward information. The more you know about the "Why" behind our "What," the more you’ll feel like an insider.

4. Discover the Joy of Serving the 901

There is a unique bond that happens when you serve alongside others. At FA Memphis, we have "serving lanes" for every personality and gift set. From helping with our recreational sports to serving in our local outreach programs in Cordova and Bartlett, getting involved is the fastest way to build deep friendships.

When you move from a seat to a team, you stop being a consumer and start being a contributor. That is the definition of family.

5. Bridge Your Connection with Boundless Online

Life in Memphis can be fast-paced. Between travel, work, and family commitments, you might not be able to make it to the building every Sunday. This is where Boundless Online Church comes in.

Boundless isn't just a livestream; it’s a global digital community. By engaging with our online campus, you can stay connected to the Word and the family, no matter where you are. It’s the perfect bridge for those who are homebound, traveling, or simply want to introduce a friend to our community from the comfort of their home.

---

Understanding Our Foundations

To help you feel more at home, here are a few key concepts we live by at First Assembly Memphis:

Definition: Discipleship The lifelong process of following Jesus, learning His teachings, and growing to become more like Him in character and action.

Definition: Community A group of believers who share their lives, support one another in times of need, and encourage each other in their spiritual journey.

Definition: Sanctification The ongoing work of the Holy Spirit in a believer’s life, setting them apart for God’s purposes and transforming them into the image of Christ.

Life Takeaway: Your Seat is Saved

The most important thing to remember is that you don't have to be "perfect" to belong here. Every member of our "family" was a visitor once. We are all people who have found grace and are trying to walk it out together in the 901. Your one real step closer to community might just be the most important step you take this week.

Are you ready to stop being a visitor and start being part of the family?

---

Want to go deeper?

If you're in Memphis, Cordova, Arlington, Bartlett, or the 901, we would love to welcome you in person this Sunday: 🌐 www.famemphis.org

If you're outside our area or unable to attend locally, join our global church family online: 🌐 www.boundlessonlinechurch.org

Need prayers? Text us day or night at 1-901-213-7341. (Note: This line is for prayer and pastoral support, not emergency services. If you are in immediate danger or need urgent help, please call 911.)

We are here for you.