I visit a lot of churches in my work.
A few weeks ago, during a visit to Shepherd Church in the Los Angeles area, led by pastor Dudley Rutherford, I was reminded of just how important the volunteer team is in the church parking lot.
Shepherd is a popular church in Southern California, and parking is a real problem (but a good problem). Here’s what I noticed on that Sunday:
– The parking crew was really good at the job. They helped us navigate into the lot and park quickly, which immediately makes an impression on visitors.
– They were incredibly excited that we were there! I didn’t pass a single parking person who failed to welcome me — even when they were busy directing other cars. Plus, they were telling us about the sermon series Dudley was preaching, and getting people ready before they even entered the building.
– They had fun, and it was contagious. I saw a few grumpy visitors walking in, but as soon as they passed a parking lot attendant they brightened right up.
– They were just as motivating when we left. They were wishing people well, thanking them for visiting and creating a great send-off.
‘Eight-second world’
Remember — we live in an eight-second world and first impressions are critical. In that context, whether you have one person or a multi-person team helping in the parking lot, they’re the first contact new visitors receive.
In fact, first impressions are so important in today’s culture that training, encouraging and inspiring the team parking cars could be one of the most important ministries of the church!
EDITOR’S NOTE — This story was written by Phil Cooke and was originally published by philcooke.com.
