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“Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some people have entertained angels without knowing it.” – Hebrews 13:2

We want you to feel welcome at Woodlake United Methodist Church!  A church can never be too friendly, so it is important that our guests receive a special welcome.  Extending hospitality is one form of evangelism.  Each of us can greet each other and extend a warm hand of friendship—to everyone, visitors and members alike.

Good News Team

“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.  And surely I am with you always, to the end of the very age.” – Matthew 28:19

 

The mission of the Good News Team is to create a culture that will encourage our congregation to invite, welcome and nurture newcomers in all stages of faith in order that we, together, will grow as disciples of Christ.

 

We recognize that the work of evangelism, spreading the good news of the gift of salvation through Jesus Christ that is available to all, is the work of the universal Church.  As such, the responsibility for evangelism lies not only with professional staff and/or the “evangelism” committee, but also with each member of every Christian congregation.  It is the role of the Good News Team to look at the “big picture,” to create a climate of invitation and welcome, and to help put into place opportunities to extend hospitality to everyone who enters our doors.

Specific areas of oversight for the Good News Team include:

 

GREETERS

Greeters are the first point of contact for anyone attending worship services.  They provide a welcoming first impression, as well as help visitors find their way to the sanctuary, nursery, restrooms, etc.

USHERS

Ushers hand out bulletins, assist member and visitors in finding seats, help in offering collection and receiving Communion, and assist with other duties as needed.

NAMETAGS

Everyone is encouraged to order a permanent nametag and wear it while they are at church.  Nametags are an important part of being a welcoming church.  Order your nametag today or pick-up a form in the Welcome Center.

WELCOME CENTER

The Welcome Center is the place where members and visitors can get information on current programs or ask questions.  Volunteers staff the Welcome Center before and after each worship service, and provide assistance as needed.

WELCOME TEAM

The Welcome Team extends Christian hospitality to first-time worship visitors by visiting them briefly at their homes.  Team members welcome visitors to the church, answer any questions, provide brochures and information about the church and the new member class and respond back to the Director of Involvement Ministries with information gained from the contact.

NEW MEMBER CLASS

WUMC 101 is a New Member class, where you will learn how to G.R.O.W. here at Woodlake.  Each week focuses on different questions of faith related to Grace, Relationships, Opportunities and the World.  Please keep in mind that by attending this class, you are NOT required to become a member.  Attending this class can be a great way to just find out more about WUMC and how to get involved in its wonderful ministries.

New Member Classes are held bi-monthly and last three to four weeks.  Childcare is available for all sessions.  Click here to register for an upcoming class.

Should you have questions about any of the ministries of WUMC, about becoming a member, or would like to register for the class, please e-mail MaryKaye Cochran or call 739-4535, ext. 33.

NEW MEMBER WEEKENDS

New Member Weekends are scheduled on a bi-monthly basis.  Individuals who have attended a New Member class and are ready to join the church stand up at one of the worship services during this weekend and take the membership vows.  After the worship service, pictures are taken of new members and they receive a New Member Packet.  Click here for more information on becoming a new member.

NEW MEMBER LUNCHEONS

Two to three times a year, we have New Member Luncheons for new members who have joined the church in the previous few months.  Lunch is provided by former new member classes.  This is a special opportunity to help new members feel welcome and enjoy a time of fellowship with other new members and church staff.

HOSPITALITY TEAM

The Hospitality Team coordinates and facilitates events requiring meals, refreshments, or other forms of hospitality.  

SPECIAL EVENTS TEAM

The Special Events Team coordinates three to four church-wide events each year.  These events are opportunities for fun and fellowship for the entire church family.

If you would like to serve in any of these areas, please contact the Director of Inviting Ministries, MaryKaye Cochran, or call 739-4535, ext. 33.