First impressions. Guest experience. Connections ministry.
Why does it all matter?
Jesus Was Hospitable
Jesus exemplified the essence of hospitality throughout His ministry. He often dined with those whom society looked down upon, opened His arms to the sick and the sinner, and taught that loving one's neighbor was paramount. True hospitality isn’t what is pictured in the pages of a Southern Living magazine - it’s pictured in the person and works of Jesus. Christ showcased that true hospitality is a selfless act of love. Romans 12:13 tells us to “seek to show hospitality”. The call of the church and of the Christ follower is to exemplify Jesus, this includes carrying His hospitable heart towards others.
First Impressions Are Key
A guest's experience at a church is crucial, as first impressions can heavily influence their decision to return. Research indicated that many guests decide within the first 10 minutes of being on a church campus wether or not they will return. For many, those 10 minutes take place before the first song kicks off or the first sentence of the sermon is spoken. Instead, those 10 minutes are spent finding a parking spot, navigating where to take their children and finding a seat or their way around the building. The experience we create within those first 10 minutes really count.
Relationships Matter
We weren’t created to live life alone. We all have a deep need to feel seen and known - this is even true for introverts! One of the most commonly cited reasons for a guest returning to a church is personal relationships. If a guest makes a personal connection or is followed up with genuinely and intentionally, they are far more likely to return.
Meet Renee
Hi there! I'm Renee. Alongside my husband Logan, I am blessed to serve at Biltmore Church, a multi-site church in Western North Carolina. We're a team both in ministry and in raising our two wonderful children, Raleigh and Roman. My journey has woven through the diverse realms of guest services, connections, systems, and processes as well as worship ministry. This experience spans both the secular business sector and full-time church ministry. I hold a deep passion for connecting people to the local church. I believe that having a welcoming experience, a robust volunteer team and a strong retention strategy has the power to transform the body of our churches.