After our relocation transition from church planting to LEAD, on our “to do” list was to find a church where we could worship and tithe. Our prayer was that God would direct us to where he wanted us.  We honestly did not care if the church had 30 people in attendance or 3000.  Our denomination which we are accountable to does not have a church in driving distance and we were open to any Christian church.  We were not looking for the “best show” in town but we did desire a church with a kingdom mindset.  When a church has a kingdom mindset people are valued. And when people are valued reaching new people (primarily the lost) is a top priority.  We visited several churches for 3 months but only one followed us up. Yes I said ONE. By follow up I mean they responded to our questions turned in on a visitor card or other form of contact via a phone call, email or letter.

The benefit of being part of a church with a kingdom mindset has greatly blessed our children.  In the past few weeks I have emailed the children and youth director and each time I received a response in less than 24 hours.  Staff and volunteers were professional and helpful. Julie Durling (children’s director) called me twice outside of her office hours, another worker named Susan emailed me and encouraged me to call her anytime I had a question and offered to meet with me. Last Sunday night our shy 13 year old went to a youth group for the first time.  He was nervous and had no desire to go. Peter Dahlin,  the youth director immediately connected with Matthew and introduced him to others.  Margaret a volunteer approached us and her passion for reaching youth oozed out of her every word.  His small group leader, Ray White, helped to make him feel welcome and at ease.  They gave every first time visitor a sports bag with the youth logo and inside was a water bottle and a leather compact Bible that Matthew was very excited about using. Seeing  the volunteer and financial investment it was obvious that reaching kids is a priority and passion. 

Church size should not determine follow up. Are you the only pastor and your other staff are volunteer?  Todd and I have seen many single staff churches that were excellent at follow up. When people are valued follow up will happen.  When follow up happens a church will grow. How is your church doing with follow up?