Welcoming A Guest Preacher Ensures A Great Event

By Judy Sullivan


When congregations meet a guest preacher for the first time, it is generally on a special occasion that requires the services of a true speaker. The route that a church follows to get the speaker to the pulpit is at times a formal one in the beginning, an the atmosphere will warm when certain steps are taken. It will calm the nerves of church managers when the person that is chosen to speak is well known among churchgoers in the local area.

Contacting a speaker via a telephone call will fall on the shoulders of a minister. The tone of the call is always friendly but will convey a need that the church has. The reasons for the visit are discussed in great detail, and a formal invitation is sent to church members after certain details are discussed. When the call ends, it is likely that the person will look forwarding to visit the church but the Board that manages the church funds will have to vote on the matter.

The clergyman will provide a great deal of valuable information on the forms that are sent out. The clergy can choose to provide a script of each speech or sermon that is to be executed during the event. Spaces on the form will clarify the purpose of each event so that all parties understand why the visit is being scheduled. If a person is to be baptized on that date, then those names are included on the form.

The congregation is provided with an announcement about the event, and church funds are to be used to mail the notices out. A great crowd is expected to arrive, which will justify the expenses incurred and many church members will look forward to the engagement. Many churches enjoy gathering together after certain speakers have concluded for the day as a form of fellowship.

The speaker will often be asked to add information to the form that they feel is vital to making the visit successful. The simple task of giving space for this purpose will make the visitor feel welcome before arriving at the location. When that form is returned to the church office, it will be made part of each package that is sent to the Board for review.

Not all members of the congregation are familiar with the special speaker or their background. The information that is gained from the forms is used to create a biography that can be handed to guests when they enter the building. The paper would contain a brief history on his marital status and any children at home. The congregation will warm to the person when these details are revealed.

The church Board will review all costs associated with the visit since the funds given by parishioners are what pays for these expenses. Some members may feel that a fee should be provided to the speaker and travel costs are often added to those totals. Lodging arrangements will be discussed and finalized before the speaker arrives in the area.

A guest preacher will convey a certain message to the congregation that is meant to inspire every individual in attendance. The speeches will be tailored to the needs of the church and will be presented in an eloquent manner. All members of the congregation will enjoy reading about the speech in the weekly newsletter.




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