Feels Like the First Time…
Not only is this a title of a great song by the band, Foreigner (circa 1977), it is also a terrific podcast in which Aron and Mark thoughtfully discuss both being a first time visitor and what churches should be mindful of if they have a first time visitor in their midst. It seems like a simple and common enough occurrence, but somehow there are strange and awkward misconceptions on both sides of the experience…
March 2nd, 2009 at 6:13 pm
This episode is perfect timing for me, as I’ve been visiting several religions lately
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Two quick things I’d like to observe:
1. When you mention you can tell the kind of Christian reception based on the coffee time afterwards - I think the Mormons might have a problem with that (though they tend to have fruit punch instead of coffee)
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2. Most importantly, I love that you let the “give more information” up to the guest concept. I don’t know how many times I’ve been at a religious service and it’s been “When are you coming back? When are you bringing the family? What’s they’re name? Where do you live? Can we come visit?”
And I’m trying to be polite and just say “Woah - ease up there cowboy.” I appreciate the friendliness, but really - tone it down just a tad.