How to Create a Welcoming Brochure for Guests at a Church

Joining a church congregation can be daunting for some newcomers. Creating a welcoming brochure for guests at a church can be an effective tool to introduce potential new members to the flock. It can also be used to explain in detail the particular ministries to which your congregation belongs. A welcoming brochure can also answer questions and make it easier for guests to feel more comfortable joining and participating in the activities of the church.

Instructions

1. • 1
     Understand that the target audience for the church welcoming brochure are those who are new to the congregation. Keep this in mind to avoid using terms that could be hard for a newcomer to understand or relate to. Refrain from using “insider” language, such as abbreviations and acronyms that only seasoned practitioners know about. For example, explain any term that you believe an average person might not understand. Be aware that using esoteric terms could intimidate, and thus alienate, newcomers. The goal of the welcoming brochure is to invite new people in a way that makes them feel that they could easily mix and get along with the congregation.
   • 2
     Create a focus for the church welcoming brochure. Ensure that the brochure adequately addresses just how your congregation could serve a newcomer's needs and become an important part of their lives. Think of the welcoming brochure as a health and wellness tool, only on a spiritual level. Include anecdotes about some of the practitioners with quotes describing how they use what they learn at the services to enhance their lives.
   • 3
     Ensure that the church welcoming brochure is well-developed and professionally printed. Include all pertinent information such as church address, phone number, people to contact, email address and website URL. Describe the church's history and provide a vision statement. Add timely information about regular events and activities that occur within the church community.
   • 4
     Keep the brochure updated regularly, preferably at least once annually. If you regularly add events and time-sensitive information, consider printing it on a monthly basis. An up-to-date brochure shows that the church cares about its congregation. Encourage and consider input from practitioners and adjust the information as appropriate and necessary. Ask respected congregation and church staff members to review the brochure prior to having it printed for proofing and accuracy.