Visitor's Welcome Packet
by Gina Lee
Summer
may bring vacationing Christians to your church. They may be just
passing through on their way to some other destination, or they
may be staying in your area for a week or more. Besides having an
official greeter to meet them at the door, why not present each
guest with a visitor’s package? Here are a few items you might
want to include.
-
a flyer with the name, address, and phone number of your church and pastor, along with times of services
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an invitation for any special upcoming activities, such as a potluck or musical program
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an audio tape of a previous church service
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recent copies of Sunday school take-home papers for the children
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a map of your city
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an informational booklet about your city
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booklets for any appropriate area tourist attractions
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a listing of area restaurants (including fast food outlets) with price ranges
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information on local public transportation
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scenic postcards with stamps, or perhaps a 10-minute prepaid phone card so they can stay in touch with the folks back home
Most cities have informational material available free for the asking at your City Hall or Chamber of Commerce. All the goodies should fit in a 9-by 11-inch envelope and can be handed to the guest after the service.
Your visitors will feel even more welcome with a personal invitation to enjoy dinner at the home of a church member. Ask for volunteers beforehand who are willing to entertain summer guests so that there will be time for the host to adequately prepare. Your visitors will be grateful they took time out from sight-seeing to attend your church when Sunday worship includes a generous serving of Christian hospitality.
Gina Lee is a freelance writer who lives in Burbank, California.
