This book is written by Thom Rainer entitled “Becoming a Welcoming Church.” As with the last book I will be adding a chapter a day for us to consider. I am in no way saying our church or your church if you are reading this is not welcoming – just something to think about. I am capitalizing the chapter sections.
This is part one of chapter 3. “SIGNS AND SITES”
This chapter is all about signs, directions, websites, and helping people find their way.
“We all need directions.”
FIVE MYTHS ABOUT CHURCH SIGNAGE AND WEBSITES
Myth #1 – Everyone knows where the church is.
Myth #2- Our church is small we do not need signs for people to get around.
Myth #3 – Church websites are really not that important.
“Please hear me carefully: most people go to your church website before they ever set foot on your property.”
Myth #4 – It’s easy to get around our church.
Myth #5 – Signs and websites are human-centered methodologies.
A PRIMER FOR CHURCH SIGNAGE
“Good church signage is a statement of your church’s hospitality. It means you are expecting guests, it means you desire guests to come to your church. Bad or no signage is a sign of a lack of hospitality.” Let’s put ourselves in the shoes of someone who has not visited our church before.
- Signage is not for members. “Strive to have “outsider eyes” when evaluating your signage.
- Quality signage is very important.
- The primary external church sign is also very important.
- The parking lot should have clear signage.
- The should be clear signage pointing to the entry points of the church.
- The two “must” signs are handicap and guest parking.
- Internal signage must have three basic characteristics: good quality, readable font, and right height.
- All signs should be friendly and communicate an attitude of hospitality.
- All signage can be very helpful for guests and for the church.
- Church leaders should conduct a sign audit once a year,
THE FRONT DOOR WE OFTEN FORGET
Tomorrow, we look at the church website.
Asbury Chapel 