Using Church Bulletins to Welcome New People

There are many types of churches available across the United States. For a person new to religion or perhaps unfamiliar with the different denominations, it can be overwhelming to choose a church. There are several factors that can help a newcomer evaluate a particular church as to whether it is right for him or not. 

One of the easiest for churches to employ is the use of church bulletins. These are a type of non-intrusive literature that provides information a person needs to make a decision on a church home without pressure. Here are a few things to include in a church bulletin to assist a visitor in their decision-making process.

1. Create interest with an attractive cover.

While a church may have a talented graphic artist among its members, it usually makes sense for convenience and cost to purchase bulletins from a company that specializes in church bulletins. The covers fit with the theme of a particular holiday or season. This causes a person to actually open the bulletin rather than tossing it in the trash can on the way to the pew. Paying attention to grammar and spelling also gives the church a professional image that shows they care about the details.

2. Provide a friendly greeting.

When a person opens his bulletin, he should first see a welcome message that shows him someone is glad he took the time to attend. It should include an invitation to participate and make him feel that he is not just a visitor but a part of the congregation.

3. Include an overview of the basic doctrines of the church.

This is helpful especially for someone looking for a church to call home. While specifics do not have to be outlined in the church bulletin, it is important for a visitor to know if the important doctrines held by the church are in line with his own beliefs.

4. Help attendees know what to expect.

Different denominations do this different ways. Some churches have a program with specific direction on what is coming next in the service. Others have a statement about how the service is conducted pertaining to whether it is more formal with everyone standing and kneeling at once or informal where someone may perhaps speak aloud to contribute to the service.

5. Give a newcomer an incentive for returning.

If a person enjoys the service, he will probably want to find a way to join in the community and see if the fellowship style of the church appeals to him as well. Having a list of future events in the church bulletin will give him a way to plug into that community and return.

While nothing is more welcoming than a friendly handshake or a personal greeting, the use of church bulletins can break the ice and remove the uncomfortable feeling of not knowing what is expected. Churches wishing to expand their attendance would do well to maximize the appeal of the literature they provide to those looking for a church.

Phone: 800-741-7721