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Jan
19
F Leader , I Leader , Susan Hill

3 Easy Ways to Create a Welcoming Environment in Your LIFE Group

Part 1:  Placing a Greeter at the Door

by Susan Hill 

All of us would agree that we want our LIFE Group to be hospitable and inviting for
first-time guests. But the truth is, the longer a LIFE Group has been together, the greater the risk that the group will focus inward and lose sight of hospitality and the needs of newcomers. The shift is never intentional, but it sometimes happens. The great news is there are simple steps that group members and leaders can take to be proactive in creating and maintaining a welcoming environment for visitors.
One of the simplest things that will create a great impact is to place a greeter at the door. People who attend a LIFE Group want to connect to biblical community. They are eager to get to know others in a friendly atmosphere.  A greeter adds a personal touch that creates a welcoming environment that puts visitors at ease.
Placing a greeter at the door of your LIFE Group sends the message that visitors are anticipated and welcomed. Also, it provides the newcomer a contact person who can introduce them to other members of the class and help them get connected.
Remember, first-time guests often feel awkward attending a group where they may not know anyone. A friendly face at the door who is willing to answer questions, tell the visitor what to expect, and introduce them to group members will go a long way in making the newcomer feel welcome.
When Paul describes the characteristics of true Christians in Romans 12:13 he writes, “Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality.” As church leaders, we have been given the astounding privilege and responsibility to teach people about the good news of Jesus Christ. As we consider how to minister to those who have been entrusted to our care, let’s be intentional about creating a warm and welcoming environment in our LIFE Groups.

Jan
12
F Leader , I Leader , Susan Hill

Hospitality in Your LIFE Group

How Important Is Hospitality In Your LIFE Group?

by Susan Hill

Imagine walking into a room full of strangers hoping you will have the opportunity to connect with new people and grow in your relationship with Christ through the study of His Word. For a few people, this is an easy thing to do. For many others, the experience is awkward or maybe even uncomfortable. Every week we have the opportunity to host first time guests in our LIFE Groups, and we want to be intentional about making their experience as enjoyable as possible.
As Christ followers, it is our responsibility to create a warm and welcoming environment for both guests and LIFE Group members.  In fact, the concept of hospitality is biblical. 1 Peter 4:9 says, “Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. Each of you should use whatever gift you have receive to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in various forms.”
It’s not a stretch to say that hospitality is a form of evangelism. Most of the time relationships have to be built and nurtured before we have enough influence in someone’s life to disciple them. Hospitality is simple, but the impact is incalculable.
So, how do we practice excellent hospitality? Begin by simply introducing yourself and letting them know you are glad they are there.  Introduce them to others in your group, but don’t put pressure on them to stand up and introduce themselves to the class. Remember that people come to a LIFE Group with the desire to connect to biblical community but many are uncomfortable speaking in front of a new group.
Be sure to follow early in the week with an email or call inviting them back. We have the opportunity to make our LIFE Groups a place where kindness abounds, radical hospitality is the norm, and because of the relationships we have built, we are in a position to tell others about Jesus.