How Do You Get Strangers to Smile?

Easy. Smile at them first.

Your smile communicates you're warm, pleasant, attractive, sincere, confident and sociable. It's a universal sign of happiness and friendliness recognized by every culture. And your smile radiates that you're a winner.

It's very easy to smile. You'll use about 26 muscles. They're contagious. You'll gain confidence and self-esteem. They're always in demand and a powerful way to say, "You matter."

The bible teaches that you reap what you sow. Usually reaping multiples in return. So if you smile at a group of five—one smile sown can reap five in return.

Who are we?

Our smile is our main asset as an usher/greeter. We're a close-knit group of people-conscious believers who welcome everyone gracing the doors at Rock Church. And this is a personal invitation to include you into our team.

You won't be rejected if you're shy, nervous or hyper. Instead, you'll feel right at home because we treat each other as family and we care for one another. Each of us matters to all of us.

"The usher/greeter ministry serves the Body of Christ," claims lead servant Shirley Sanz.

We meet before service to study scripture... talk... laugh... cry... pray for one another... and glorify God. This gives us a chance to bond, build and strengthen friendships. Which usually leads to pizza, movies, sports events or sipping a Strawberries and Crème Frappuccino® at Starbucks.

Besides smiling, we perform one of the most important responsibilities at The Rock...

We greet and meet worshippers and make them feel welcomed. If what you hear about first impressions are true—then this is where newcomers first evaluate Rock Church. Guests and new members may be intimidated by the size of our church. Especially seeing so many strangers. Our mission is to disarm their fears and make them feel they belong. And that's critically important because you never get a second chance to make a first impression.

We break the ice by shaking hands, donating hugs, flashing a wave, giving high-fives and passing out bulletins. We direct worshippers to seating, collect the offering and assist in communion. (I believe most of you are pre-qualified to join our family.)

I'm sure you agree—events do much better when guests can claim their seats. Usually our guests and members seat themselves. Occasionally we may ask to tighten up a row. Believe me when I say our members and guests are the most cooperative and enjoyable crowd you'll work with.

And here's one of our most important, but overlooked responsibilities...

The collection.

God has blessed Rock Church with an abundance of faithful attendees so we'll have to make sure this part of the event runs smoothly and swiftly. We coordinate this through eye contact with our teammates and team leaders. And you can make our ministry shine by surveying your area to assist with people's needs when opportunity knocks.

This do in remembrance of me...

In Luke 22:15, Jesus said, With desire I have desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer.

And in Luke 22:19-20, He took the bread, and gave thanks, saying, This is my body which is given for you: this do in remembrance of me.

He took the cup saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood, which is shed for you.

As an usher/greeter you'll prepare the bread and cup for one of the most sacred ceremonies in all Christendom: The Holy Communion. This event represents the most passionate love act in the history of mankind—God becoming man, so man can be united with God.

No other event in history can match the monumental effect Jesus had in determining where mankind chooses to spend eternity. When we're in heaven we'll see His nail-pierced hands and feet, and remember the heavy price He paid on that blood-soaked cross. He paid a price He did not owe—we owe a price we could not pay.

As an usher/greeter, you'll play an active part in preparing for this sacred ceremony.

Don't you guys ever have any fun?

I'm glad you asked. Every other month the entire ministry gets together for a fun activity. And when it's your group's turn, you get to suggest which activity you think everyone might like to do. Past events include hiking at Cuyamaca, playing 18 holes, diving-in on a pool party, and the Christmas celebration.

So how do you qualify?

If you can say these four words: "Hi, how are you?" then you've already aced the entrance exam. And if that's too hard, then a simple "Hello" will do just fine.

But please don't assume anyone can be included into our family. We do have some reservations...

We are looking for sharp, courteous individuals who'd like to practice hospitality. And if you live by the Golden Rule of treating others as you would like to be treated—then you are a perfect candidate for our ministry.

Otherwise there are three minor requirements...

The first is making a six-month commitment for serving and the second is to enroll in Covenant 200. As God continues to build Rock Church your commitment to greet people will genuinely bless His church. And Covenant 200 is designed for believers who want to arm themselves with bible truth and knowledge while serving in a ministry.

And the last qualification: put on your best smile.

Closing words from Shirley...

"If you call the Rock Church your home church, I really believe you should take ownership of that and get involved in a Sunday ministry. And the usher/greeter (ministry) is a great beginning if you don't know where to start."

Regards,
Tommy Yan

P.S. If you'd like to join us and become an eyewitness to God's amazing power, email Shirley Sanz at ushergreeterministry@therocksandiego.org for more information. We want all members to have a place to connect, network and fellowship.

For the published version, go to:
http://www.therocksandiego.org/stories/howtogetasmile