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Many churches only talk of stewardship in the fall when the annual pledge drive begins, equating “stewardship” to “financial giving.” But stewardship is so much more! Let’s broaden the “stewardship” scope to focus on management or oversight, as in the duty of watching or guarding for the sake of proper direction and control.
Management and oversight of our church properties, our ministries, our reputation in the community, our future growth, our staff, and our congregation is every bit as vital as management of our financial resources. Let’s constantly evaluate and improve how we present ourselves to the community, to visitors and potential members, to community organizations who utilize our facilities, and to our own church family. Each person who contacts, sees or visits our church instantly forms their own first impression, and we only get one chance to make a great first impression. Here’s how:
Be aware of those who may be visiting for the first time and offer your hand in welcome. Step out in faith and speak to someone you don’t know during coffee fellowship. Volunteer in a ministry or activity you haven’t tried before.
Everyone can help us become the church God wants us to be by offering your prayers, your presence, your gifts, and your service, not just in the fall but throughout the year. Everyone in the church can be a “Director of First Impressions!”
Chris Martin First Impressions