Top Ten Strategies to Make Newcomers Feel Welcome and Engaged in Your Church Community

Welcoming new people into a church community can be a challenge. Many newcomers feel uncertain or hesitant when attending for the first time. Creating a warm, inviting atmosphere and helping them stay connected beyond Sunday services can make a big difference. This post shares ten practical ways to help newcomers feel welcome and engaged, including how to use online tools to build lasting connections.

A church entrance warmly decorated to greet newcomers

1. Greet Newcomers Personally and Warmly

A simple, genuine greeting can set the tone for a newcomer’s experience. Train volunteers to recognize first-time visitors and approach them with a smile. Offering a welcome packet with information about the church’s mission, service times, and upcoming events helps newcomers feel informed and valued.

2. Create a Newcomers’ Welcome Group

Form a small group dedicated to welcoming and supporting newcomers. This group can meet regularly to pray for new attendees, share stories, and plan outreach activities. Assigning a “welcome buddy” to each newcomer can provide a personal connection and someone to answer questions.

3. Use Online Tools to Stay Connected

Many newcomers appreciate staying connected through online platforms. Create a church website or app with a dedicated newcomers’ section. Include:

• A welcome video from the pastor or leadership team

• Links to upcoming events and Bible studies

• Contact forms for questions or prayer requests

  
  

Encourage newcomers to join online chat groups or forums where they can introduce themselves and interact with others.

4. Share Blog Posts Focused on Personal Growth

Publishing regular blog posts on topics like faith, prayer, and personal growth can help newcomers engage with the church’s teachings at their own pace. Invite guest writers from the congregation to share testimonies or insights. Allow comments on posts to encourage discussion and connection.

An open Bible with a notebook and pen ready for study and reflection

5. Offer Online Bible Studies and Prayer Groups

Not everyone can attend in-person Bible studies or prayer meetings. Offering virtual options allows newcomers to participate from home. Use video conferencing tools for live sessions and record them for later viewing. Encourage participants to share prayer requests and reflections in chat or forums.

6. Encourage Sharing of Quiet Times and Prayer Experiences

Invite newcomers to share their quiet time reflections or prayer experiences on the church’s online platforms. This practice builds a sense of community and spiritual growth. It also helps newcomers feel heard and supported in their faith journey.

7. Provide Clear Next Steps for Involvement

Help newcomers know how to get involved beyond attending services. Offer clear information about volunteer opportunities, small groups, and upcoming events. Use email newsletters or text messages to keep them informed and invited.

8. Foster a Culture of Inclusion in Worship Services

Make worship services welcoming by including moments that recognize newcomers. For example, a brief welcome announcement or a time for new attendees to stand and be greeted by the congregation can make a big impact. Use inclusive language and avoid church jargon that might confuse those new to the faith.

9. Use Chat Features for Real-Time Support

During online services or events, enable chat features where newcomers can ask questions or share prayer requests. Assign volunteers to monitor chats and respond promptly. This real-time interaction helps newcomers feel connected even if they are physically distant.

A small group meeting in a church setting fostering connection and discussion

10. Follow Up Personally After Initial Contact

After a newcomer attends a service or event, follow up with a personal message or phone call. Ask about their experience and offer to answer any questions. This follow-up shows care and encourages continued involvement.