There are so many things I wish I could tell churches of good things and bad things to do if a missionary visits your church. But I'm afraid it would be taken as complaining or ungrateful, or judgmental. We stop in to churches often on Sunday nights. We try to give the Pastor some warning, and let him know that we don't need or are asking for anything, but that we want to be a blessing if we can and possibly tell about our ministry. Most churches are very gracious and friendly, and some even let Caleb sing and present the ministry. We never expect a love offering!
But then there are churches that act offended that you dared to stop in. If they treat visitors how they treat us, I feel bad for them when they get to Heaven. Just a friendly handshake and smile, a question about our ministry or family, and a God bless you is really all a person needs, right?
I won't go on, because I don't want to complain and cast blame. I just thought maybe I could spread a word out there to church members that a kind word and a smile go a long way!
I agree Laura. Often times I just wonder if they realize how they come across to others. It's hard because we know it's not the case with every church and as you we don't expect anything when just stopping in; but maybe a place to just feel at home, welcomed. On the road I get real lonesome and all I really need is a friendly face...I'm sure a person "off the street" would know, ten times more than we do how this feels. Oh, I don't even know if I'm making sense!
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