Sunday, January 19, 2014

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 name of each visiting clergyman will be placed on the form as well as the dates for the visit. The forms will also list the purpose of each visit such as a revival, baptism, or a sermon befitting holy occasions such as the birth of Christ, and the Resurrection. Parishioners find great comfort when words are spoken by a friend at a funeral.

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.

Certain spaces in the form that is sent out will allow the speaker to make known any special needs. The space could list items that would be presented to people who are being baptized that day, or the person might ask the choir to sing several songs in celebration of a seasonal holiday. This opportunity to make a request will ultimately make the speaker feel welcomed before they arrive.

The information that is provided on the form will be used to create an introduction at the beginning of each speaking engagement. The names of the spouse and children will be needed, and the dates that the person attended seminary, and any other credentials that are pertinent. The congregation will warm to the words of a person that allows others to get close, and any information that the person cares to share will prove to be useful.

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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