This past Sunday, we were pleasantly surprised by the turnout at the family event in Sonora at the High Country Sports Area. With about 40 people, the event was a great success. Some played Capture the Flag, and others played intense games of Nerts. It was heartwarming to see many families from Vine & Branch, and we were equally delighted to welcome visitors who found out through our VBS communications.

As I was driving to Sonora, I could not for the life of me think of where this place was located. I had no choice but to put the address into my phone, and the mystery got even more significant. Thirty-five years ago, I used to deliver that area for UPS, and I still needed help to picture where it was located.

As I got closer, my feelings worsened because that area is not one for events; it’s an ancient industrial area. But I saw a small sign as I doubted Siri and her directions. Then, as my doubt was creeping back in, another sign appeared, and before I could see the building, one last small street sign popped out at me.

As I exited my car, I became more apprehensive about seeing it. The glass doors had reflective film, which prevented me from seeing inside to assure myself I was in the correct location. The doors were very awkward, and I was still determining what door to use.

Then I got inside, and an employee in a strange, unmarked room stared at me. Luckily, Stephine Copp appeared with her fantastic smile, and for the first time, I knew I was in the right place. So why am I sharing all of this? All I could think about on Sunday night was how similar visitors must feel at our church.

Our church is in an area known for ranches and access to campgrounds and boat launches. Yes, many of us have been coming here for 25 years, but what about the person coming for the first time? Do we have signs to help guide them? Do we have people in the parking lot that smile and greet them? Do they feel welcome or see people visiting with their friends when they get inside?

Last Sunday, as I was lying in bed processing all this, I thought of two people and their responses when they came to Vine & Branch for the first time: Brenda and Rex. Brenda had tears in her eyes when her foot stepped on the old church tile, and Rex seemed afraid. He shared that he had looked at a postcard on his fridge for three months, working up the courage to come. Now, each Sunday, they have joy all over their faces.

I can tell you this: We must do better so people can feel “connected” on their first visit. Cristi, our new Connect Director, and Margie Flannagin will help develop a Connect Team. This team will complement our excellent greeters by adding parking lot helpers and ushers inside to help people find seats. When people are standing for worship, it is very hard to see the available seats.

The Connect Team will work hard on signage so people will feel like they are going in the correct direction when looking for doors, restrooms, and Sunday School. They will also develop a Visitor’s area with information. This Connect Team will be a fantastic way to serve the Lord for about 20 minutes each week. Would you consider serving this way? You can call 209-736-9338 and ask for Cristi or email at connect@vineandbranchfellowship.com

This Sunday, we will look at The Charge from Paul to Timothy and celebrate communion together. Would you bring a dish to share at our monthly potluck? See you all at 9:30 a.m.

In Him,
Pastor Chris