Today is Somebody’s First Day

DEAR FIRST FAMILY,

On the back of each member of our staff’s name badge, you will find the words, “Today is Somebody’s First Day,” as a reminder that we want to welcome those we know, but always be on the lookout for those who are experiencing their first day at First Methodist Mansfield.

From the moment anyone arrives on our campus, we want them to experience the kind of welcome that says, “we’ve made room for you,” and today I want to share several ways you can be a part of that as we begin moving into our fall season.

First, welcome those you know while always on the lookout for those you don’t. I invite you to join us in that, and by the way, it’s fine if you discover a person you don’t know has been a member here for 40 years! It’s not uncommon for people who have both attended here for a long time to meet for the first time because they attend different services or sit on the opposite side of the sanctuary.

Secondly, we’d love for you to consider joining our welcome team and specifically the new team we are forming to welcome our guests in the parking lot as soon as they arrive. Now, it’s August. That may not sound like the most timely ask, but it is one of the most meaningful ways we can welcome and help those who are brand new find their way around our campus.

If you would like to serve on our welcome team, simply reply to this email and let me know. I will get you connected to this essential ministry.

Finally, for those who don’t know, we have an additional 221 parking spots right across Pleasant Ridge Drive in our remote parking lot, and we now have a more comfortable and convenient way to bring you from your car door to the front door.

Meet what we are affectionately calling, The Holy Roller.

So here’s what I want to encourage you to consider adopting as a new habit.

If you are able, we would love for you to park across the street, enjoy a nice smooth ride, and let us deliver you right to the front door.

You parking there frees up a spot for someone here who is brand new.

A new season is set to begin. You are going to notice more people in worship, and there will be someone who is experiencing their first day. And we all have a part to play in making every guest feel the warmest welcome we can possibly provide.

I look forward to seeing you this weekend!

Pastor David