We attend church regularly. We have lived many different places and have gone to many different churches. I have noticed that church can be the loneliest place on earth. Oh, most churches make the appropriate efforts to appear friendly and welcoming. But spend some time in the church and you may find that most of these efforts are superficial with parking spots for visitors, welcome announcements from the stage, and friendly greeters at the door. However, if people return to the church, they are largely ignored. It is hard for the newcomer to become involved, because friendships and ministries are already firmly established. As an introvert, I find it especially difficult to develop relationships in this environment.
Hebrews 10:24-25 says, “And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.” Our faith is not a spectator sport, where you just go to church and observe. Our faith is a shared experience of encouraging one another and stimulating each other to love and to do good works. We must become truly welcoming to newcomers, making special efforts to let them into our existing relationships and ministries.
Reluctant Retiree 