It is well known and well documented that the church in North America is in decline. However, we see and hear of pockets of well-sustained growth and healthy discipleship in some churches. What makes the difference?

In my opinion, it all begins with assimilation and assimilation begins with showing that you truly care. Perhaps in the near future we’ll write a blog on “Showing that you truly care.” For now, let’s look at 5 first steps to assimilation.

1, Assimilation does not happen by accident. A church must be intentional about assimilating new people into your congregational family. It cannot be by coercion or force. Newcomers must feel genuinely welcomed and accepted. Too often our welcome in churches is superficial – and newcomers know it.

2, A church must project a warm fellowship (atmosphere) to outsiders. Churches today have a tendency to be closed societal groups, many times without intention. We think we are open to newcomers, yet we show preference in our conversations and actions to our friends and long-term members.

3, Assimilation begins at the first contact with the church. A good rule of thumb is “the first threes”. What happens in the first three minutes when a newcomer enters – 1) your property, is there guest parking clearly marked, what entrance to use? 2) your facility, are there greeters and good signage to direct guests? 3) in the worship center, how are newcomers greeted and by how many people? Are they asked to join another family for worship?

4, All guests to your services should be contacted within 36 hours for highest rate of return. Ministerial (clergy) contacts are great; laity contacts are twice as effective. Guests see clergy contacts as part of “their duty”, what he is paid to do. On the other hand they view laity contacts as “They truly care”.

5, Newcomers to the church must begin building new relationships within the congregation immediately. You cannot wait to see if they’re going to “stick” before getting to know them. Relationships are perhaps the most crucial aspect of assimilation. Surveys and research projects over the years continue to prove the higher number of genuine, new relationships inside the church reinforce the assimilation process for individuals and families.

If your church truly desires to fulfill the purpose of The New Testament Church – The Great Commission – please do not leave assimilation to chance. Build in an assimilation process. Train and equip all of your congregation to be active participants in the assimilation of others.

George Yates is an Organizational Health Strategist and coach, assisting churches, organizations, and individuals in pursuing God’s purpose for life. Click here to receive this blog in your email inbox each Tuesday.