I am reading a terrific book by Robert Schnase, Just Say Yes! Unleashing People for Ministry. Schnase writes about how churches say No, often without realizing it, and gives examples of ways we can say Yes instead.
A very common way that churches say No is by being insider-focused, and forgetting to make visitors feel welcome.
I can think of several ways Berrien UU says No without meaning to. Stay with me while we put ourselves in the shoes of a visitor.
If we are driving south on Lincoln Avenue, is it easy to find the Berrien UU driveway? The roadside sign is lit at night, but can it be seen from a distance by someone visiting for the first time?
If we are pulling into the parking lot for the first time, is it easy to tell which door to go in? Has the walkway been cleared and salted?
If we are stepping into the Fuller Fellowship hall for the first time, do we know where to go next? Do we feel comfortable helping ourselves to a cup of coffee? Does the coffee table say we’re glad you’re here? (Think about the hot water and coffee urns!)
If we are here with our children, does the playground equipment say welcome? Or do the missing swings suggest we have no interest in reaching out to children?
If we are seated in the sanctuary, does someone sit next to us? Or do we watch while ‘insiders’ greet and sidle up next to each other, leaving us feeling alone?
Our covenant calls us to provide a caring, nurturing community. Are you being nurtured in our fellowship the way you want to be? Have you nurtured others recently?
What can you do differently to ensure our members, friends and visitors all feel the welcome, caring, and nurturing of Yes?
I welcome your comments, thoughts and ideas.
Lisa M. Fuller
president@berrienuu.org
President, Board of Trustees
Berrien UU member since 1997
