Description

Episode Summary: How Certain Church Customs Could Make Visitors Feel Uncomfortable

In this episode, we dive deep into a topic that many church leaders and visitors alike have likely experienced – certain church customs that, while meaningful to regular attendees, can make newcomers feel uneasy. Whether it's speaking in tongues, dress codes, worship styles, or tithing practices, these elements of church culture might unintentionally alienate visitors. We discuss how practices such as running the aisles, the pressure of repeated offering appeals, prophetic preaching, or being called out as a visitor, can leave guests feeling out of place.Tune in as we explore:

• Speaking in Tongues: Why this practice might seem confusing or even off-putting to first-time visitors and how to introduce it thoughtfully.
• Tithing Pressure: How repeated appeals for offerings can make guests feel uncomfortable, and why churches should focus on teaching the heart of giving rather than constant appeals.
• Worship Styles: From running the aisles to ultra-quiet services, we examine how different worship expressions may feel overwhelming to someone new.
• Dress Codes & Seating: What it means to be welcoming when it comes to attire and seating arrangements, including the discomfort visitors might feel when expected to sit at the front or adhere to strict dress codes.

We also offer practical advice for visitors to prepare for their first church visit and discuss ways churches can make sure their environment is warm, welcoming, and inclusive for everyone.Don’t miss this episode packed with helpful insights for both visitors and church leaders aiming to foster a more welcoming space!
#ChurchVisitTips #WorshipStyles #InclusiveWorship #SpeakingInTongues #ChurchOfferings #ChurchEtiquette #ChurchCommunity

Vernon's Question:

Good morning, Can you all cover this topic?How certain church customs could make people visiting uncomfortable? Speaking in tongues, certain outfits, worship styles (like running the aisles, shouting, or even the other way being too quiet, no audience interaction), prophetic preachers, preachers asking for offerings over and over, laying on of hands, snake handling and/or getting pointed out as a visitor when you visit the church. People sitting in the back and making visitors go all the way to the front. 


Thanks
-Vernon-
Knoxville, TN

How Certain Church Customs Can Make Visitors Feel Uncomfortable:
A Guide to Creating a Welcoming Environment

As a Christian community, one of our greatest callings is to welcome and include everyone, whether they are new to the faith or simply visiting. However, some church customs, while deeply meaningful to regular attendees, can unintentionally make newcomers feel out of place. From worship styles to tithing practices, there are various elements of church culture that, if not handled thoughtfully, could create discomfort for visitors. In this post, we will explore how certain church customs could make people visiting uncomfortable and how we can create an environment where everyone feels welcomed and valued.

Before You Go to Church: Setting Yourself Up for a Comfortable Experience

If you’re planning to visit a church for the first time, it’s important to approach the experience with an open mind and heart. Here are a few tips to help you prepare:

1. Have an Open Mind and Heart:
   Be prepared to embrace the diversity of worship styles and practices. Everyone’s faith journey looks different, and being open-minded helps you experience the full range of what a church might offer.
   
2. Research the Church:
   If the church has a website, take some time to explore it. Find out what denomination the church is affiliated with, as this can give you insight into their theology, worship practices, and overall approach. This will help you feel more prepared and less surprised by unfamiliar customs or traditions.
   
3. Aligning Spiritually and Biblically:
   If you discover that you don’t spiritually or biblically align with the beliefs of the church, consider visiting another congregation that is more in line with your convictions. It’s important that you feel comfortable in the place where you worship.
   
4. Respecting Special Events:
   If you are invited to attend a special event such as a baptism, baby dedication, or a similar occasion, be mindful of how the church worships during these ceremonies. Even if the practices or style of worship feel unfamiliar or uncomfortable, try not to sow discord. Respect the way they worship, and if you find yourself in a situation that feels “unbiblical” or makes you uncomfortable, politely excuse yourself without causing conflict.
   

1. Speaking in Tongues: Unfamiliar Territory for Visitors

For many churches, speaking in tongues is a powerful expression of the Holy Spirit’s presence. However, for visitors who are unfamiliar with this practice, it can be confusing or even off-putting if not handled with care.

Biblical Reference:
"Therefore, if the whole church comes together in one place, and all speak with tongues, and there come in those who are uninformed or unbelievers, will they not say that you are out of your mind?" — 1 Corinthians 14:23 (NKJV)

Why It Can Be Uncomfortable:
Visitors who are unfamiliar with speaking in tongues may not understand its significance or purpose. If tongues are spoken loudly and without interpretation, they may perceive it as chaotic or disruptive.What to Consider:
Churches should offer explanations for practices like speaking in tongues, particularly in services where visitors may be present. Providing interpretation or clarifying its role in the service can help newcomers understand that it’s an expression of faith rather than an alienating practice.


2. Repeated Offering Appeals: Pressure to Tithe
While giving tithes and offerings is a biblical practice, some visitors may feel uncomfortable if the church repeatedly asks for money during the service.

Biblical Reference:
"So let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver." — 2 Corinthians 9:7 (NKJV)

Why It Can Be Uncomfortable:
Constant appeals for offerings can make visitors feel like they are being pressured to contribute, especially if they are not prepared to give. This may make them feel uncomfortable or self-conscious about their financial situation.What to Consider:
While churches need to fund ministry programs and operations, it’s important to be mindful of how offerings are presented. Churches should focus on teaching the heart of giving rather than repeatedly asking for contributions during services. Visitors should be free to give as they feel led, without feeling coerced.