Awesome Friends Day

Personally, I believe it was one of the best Friends Days we have had since I've been here.  Thanks to many of you, we have several good prospects to share the Good News of Christ.  That's what it's all about.

The Coffee Connection wasn't packed out like we had envisioned.  There were only four visitors and one was looking for a church home.  We average that on a regular Sunday.  Don't get me wrong, I was thrilled to have the one, which made it all worthwhile.  Our greatest numbers were when our services were flipped.  There is something about having Coffee Connection after worship that appeals to visitors.  Something to think about for the future.

As far as worship was concerned we had many visitors with us.  The final count was 298.  This is really good when you begin to think of everyone who wasn't able to come due to sickness or being out of town.  It was encouraging to say the least.  Best of all was all the people who were either looking for a church home or had no church family.  The leadership wishes to thank all of you who were able to bring someone or at least tried.

That being said, let me mention a couple of things that need to happen now.

1. Contact those who came with you this week.  If you can make a one-on-one contact that is best.  Take them to lunch, stop by to see them or at least make a phone call.  Also, if you know of others who were able to make connection with them, give them your friends address so they can write a card.
2. Invite your guests to other things we have going on that may be of interest to them.  Our Celebrate Recovery on Monday nights.  The Psalms class on Wednesday nights.  Other Bible classes or happenings.  If you think they are ready for a small group, contact Bill Raikes or Mike McGee so they find the right group for them.
3. This Saturday night, call them to see if they would like to come back this Sunday.  Mention to them about the series that will be continuing.  By the way, this Sunday is "One Friend Away."
4. For the rest of us, roll out the red carpet for those who come back this week.  Don't stand back and wait for someone else to do it.  Don't get so caught up in your own relationships with others that you neglect those who may be seeking that type of fellowship.
5. Finally, whether you brought a friend or not, continue to reach out to people you know who are looking for a church home or have no church home.  Every Sunday should be treated like Friend Day.  Let us not get into the mindset that we invite people once a year.  Let this be a kickoff for the rest of the year.

Personally, I would like to thank everyone who participated in our Friends Day to make it special.  From the staff doing those extra things this week to get the building ready, to those who came early Sunday morning to set up and stayed late to clean up.  Thanks to everyone who brought food.  Not only was it outstanding but we had plenty to go around!  Also, a big thanks to everyone who participated in our worship.  Not only was it well done, but I thought the comments made were very appropriate for the day.  Once again, thank you to all who invited others to come.  Without you it would have only been Church Family Day!  I am very proud of this body of believers.

Looking ahead.  This Wednesday night we will continue our study of the Psalms as we deal with prayer.  There is so much to learn.  It is something that has the potential to change your prayer life forever.

Have a great week and don't forget about those who are sick and unable to attend.