Welcome Ministry
“So, being affectionately desirous of you, we were ready to share with you not only the gospel of God but also our own selves, because you had become very dear to us” – 1 Thessalonians 2:8(emphasis mine)
Paul writes in 1 Thessalonians 2 about the integrity of his ministry to the church in Thessalonica. I have returned to this passage many times in my Christian life to remind myself of what my ministry to those around me should resemble. While there is much that we can apply from this passage, I key in on verse 8 where I see two principles. First, he cared for these people with affection to the point that they became very dear to him. Secondly, while the gospel is of utmost importance, Paul gave of his own self to the Thessalonians. Not only did he give of himself, but he gave it joyfully.
God has blessed Oak Park with some tremendous growth. To help facilitate continued growth and effectiveness, we have embarked on a renewed emphasis on our welcome ministry. What does this mean? In short, it means a focus on being intentional about making visitors and the unchurched feel welcome by making Oak Park more inviting, removing as many barriers as possible that may prevent people from coming through our doors, and asking each of you to be intentional about reaching out to visitors. This ministry includes an expanded number of greeters, parking lot attendants, and a welcome center--among other improvements.
Areas of need are:
· Welcome Center Attendants
· Door Greeters
· Parking Lot Attendants
· Ushers
If you have any questions or a desire to serve on the
Welcome Ministry please contact Chris Bauslaugh.
