Recently members of our church moved to another city due to job transfer. They visited two congregations near their new home. Both congregations came highly recommended. They arrived early, stayed late, and made themselves available. Yet despite their eagerness, no one from Congregation No. 1 greeted them or expressed any interest. They contacted the preacher during the week and shared their concern. The preacher apologized. The next month they visited Congregation No. 2. During the first two visits, dozens of people greeted them, two Bible classes invited them out to eat, four families had them into their homes, and they received numerous invitations to become part of the congregation.

Guess which church this couple decided to attend? The friendliness of Congregation 2 made a deep impression. The ten minutes before and after each service are significant times for our guests. Friendliness must be constantly practiced. Each week, several people visit our congregation for the first time. Extend your hand. Put on a smile. Let’s be friendly.

“A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one nother; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another” - John 13:34,35