Church greeters welcome guests
As guests and members walk through the front door at First Church, they are welcomed by the greeters with warm smiles and gracious conversation. You definitely feel at home once one of these dedicated team members say hello.
With COVID-19 on the wane and most members returning to church on Sunday mornings, our greeter captains are back in action including Tom Reynolds, Tyler Bird, Cathy Akin, Linda and Jay Barnett, David Neal and Jackie Allison. Additionally, a new ministry called, “First Friends in the Pews,” started by Jerry McCoy, makes certain that we share the love of Christ by welcoming friends and guests wherever they may be.
Volunteers working at the Welcome Center continue to serve diligently including Jackie Allison, Carolyn Neely, Stephanie Martel, Angie Lawson, Karla Kerby, Nancy Blocker, Ginny Drummond and Mary Surface. A strong group of ladies who serve with joyful hearts.
“It’s a delight to answer questions for members and guests alike.” – Nancy Blocker
As you may know, the Welcome Center is a hub for all things happening in the church. Nancy Blocker said, “It’s a delight to answer questions for members and guests alike.” Recently, she talked with a visiting couple from Oregon who researched First Church online and attended the 8 a.m. Chapel service. “I was pleased to be the first person they met at First Church,” said Nancy.
Volunteers also answer the church phone, receive items for staff or other congregants, answer questions, give directions and delight in giving out candy from our own “Candy Man,” Scott Swanson. I think the adults find the Welcome Center a very “sweet” place. It’s cute to watch as members scan the desk for the basket.
The candy basket is a throwback to the beautiful candy ladies of the past including Mary Stewart Wood, Betty Payne and Eloise Stewart. Karla Kerby commented, “For the newcomers, it is a sign of welcome to a church that is glad you came and strives to make you feel you are part of a family.” Stephanie Martel said, "Serving as a welcoming volunteer is a great way to see many participants from the congregation that I might have missed seeing otherwise."
And family members serve together greeting people at the church. Jim Martel not only serves our community as a reserve officer with the Tulsa Police Department but can be seen humbly serving alongside his wife Stephanie at the Welcome Center. We also appreciate “ever-ready” volunteer, Rob Pyle, who is on-call if needed.
A special thank you to this dedicated and loving team. They “serve the Lord with gladness!” and are a gift to His church
About the author:
Patricia Hall is the director of new member outreach at the church and has served on the staff since 2011. She was baptized, confirmed and married at First Presbyterian Church. A few of her responsibilities include overseeing the welcoming arm of the church, guests and new members.