Family Hospitality (February 2, 2014)

On Sunday February 2, Missio Dei Church will be celebrating the profession of faith of Abigail Phillips and Lillian Bruxvoort as well as the baptism of Abigail Phillips. We have heard that there could possibly be upwards of an extra 30 people in attendance on Sunday morning. This is extremely exciting for us and especially for Abigail and Lillian as they will have their friends, family, and church family in attendance to support them and pray for them. 

However, much like any other "special Sunday", this means that there will be more guests in an already tight building. I have posted these hospitality tips before, but be sure to read over them again so that we can care for our guests as best as possible. 

Let me give you a math equation (A+B=C): lots of children + lots of guests = crowded church (even more so than a typical Sunday morning). So let me offer to you so quick helpful reminders that will help us be better prepare for Sunday morning. 

  1. [Parking] If you are typically a two car family on a Sunday morning, consider how you can combine schedules to all drive together. If this is unattainable, maybe one vehicle can be parked at Oster-Oakview School. This is a great way to show the friends and family that will be joining us on Sunday morning that we care for them and have been thinking about them. 
  2. [Pack the Pews] Another way to offer hospitality to our guests on Sunday morning is to be conscious of other people trying to find a seat. People will naturally come in late and we can often have the mindset of "you snooze, you loose". However, let us keep Philippians 2: 1-11 in mind and count others more significant than ourselves. An easy way to do this is to slide to the middle of the pew to allow others to sit on either end of the pew as they come in. 
  3. [Clear the Aisles] Sometimes just trying to get into church can be the most frustrating aspect for some people. We all love to greet people and welcome them into the building and recoonect with family and friends. That's great and I can't wait to hear how loud church will be with all the laughter and conversations happening. However, just be conscious on where you are going to be having those conversations. Consider moving into a pew to talk or moving to the front of church that way other friends and family can come in, have a seat, and get warm. 
  4. [Lights, Camera, Action] We all want to have that special shot as the kids are singing (or not singing). As you move around to try and get your photos and video, just be conscious that other people are filming and taking pictures as well. We want you to capture the moment however you see fit, just don't ruin it for the guy behind you that has to stare at your butt the whole time. 
  5. [Technology] Please remember to silence your iphone, ipad, ipod (or anything else with a lower case i in front of it), your android, and your camera. We want to hear your children and grandchildren sing, not your ringtones.
  6. [Greeting] Most of all, remember to greet people in the name of Jesus Christ. 

We look forward to seeing you at 9:30am (but you will want to get here early to get your seat).