A new academic year is fast approaching and that means new students and community guests will join us for worship and other welcoming events. We want Wesley to be a place where everyone belongs and is equally loved. To quote former Archbishop of Canterbury, William Temple, “The Church is the only institution that exists primarily for the benefit of those who are not its members." Perhaps we should say – “who are not yet its members.”
Hospitality and welcoming guests are core spiritual disciplines and vital for the mission of Wesley as new students, staff, and faculty members move into our community every year. Engaging worship and intentional follow-up processes are important, but what compels guests to return to our church is the warmth of our welcome and hospitality that goes beyond their expectation. Are you ready? How can you help someone find their home at Wesley?
Here are some ways you can help welcome new students and other guests to Wesley.
Make a commitment to be present in worship each Sunday from August 18-September 29. Of course, the goal is to be present in worship every single week, but we know that other commitments can interfere, and life happens. However, the first six+ weeks of the fall semester are the most important time of the year to connect with new students and community guests. Your presence helps create a warm and hospitable experience for everyone and adds so much to the vitality and energy of worship.
Wear your nametag in worship and at Coffee Hour. Don’t have a nametag? We’ll make one for you.
Practice the “Circle of Ten.” Personally greet everyone who may sit within ten feet of you on Sunday. Introduce yourself by name if it is someone you do not know. You can greet them before the service, during Passing of the Peace, and after the service.
Practice the “Rule of Three.” Guests typically leave the building within three minutes after the service. Devote the first three minutes after the benediction to speaking with people you don’t know before speaking with family and friends.
Park at the far edges of our parking lot (if you are physically able) and leave the closest parking spaces for guests.
Help us find our part-time Director of Outreach and Guest Services wesleyui.org/employment
A Word about New Students - Ministry with students is one of the core missions of our congregation and the central purpose of the Wesley Foundation. Make a special effort to introduce new students to Pastor David and Pastor Yiwen before or after the service and connect them to other students who are present. Peer-to-peer connections are critical in helping students feel more at home here at Wesley.
A Word about Coffee Hour - Coffee Hour can be an intimidating experience for a new guest. We will move the coffee hour to the front porch of the sanctuary for the beginning of the semester. However, if you invite a new guest to coffee-hour, all but the most extraverted will likely decline. That’s okay. If they say, “No thank you. I have to get going.” respond with, “I certainly understand. Perhaps next time. Can I introduce you to our pastor on your way out?”
Final Thoughts (for now) about hospitality and welcoming new guests - Stay current with what's going on in the Church and Student Center. Read through the weekly announcements and familiarize yourself with upcoming events. You don't have to memorize every opportunity, but sharing one or two options encourages folks to think about other ways they can get connected.
Don't underestimate the power and impact of a warm hello and genuine friendliness. Your presence, your genuine interest, your hospitality, and your kindness all make a difference!
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