Three years ago, I said yes to becoming the location pastor at Resurrection Brookside. What was once a congregation of about 75 people on Sundays – with just a handful of children – has now grown to an average of 400 in worship and 50 children each week. But what I love even more than the numbers is the community that has formed: people volunteering, growing through studies and moms’ groups, and serving together. It feels warm and inviting, and people are excited to help others experience the same sense of belonging.
As I reflect on what’s helped us stay outwardly focused, here are a few practices that continue to shape our culture:
- 3 MIN READ
- Key Takeaways
- Why fresh eyes on your building reveals welcome gaps guests notice
- How embracing community disruptions creates unexpected paths to connection
- The power of personally asking people to serve and connect
Seeing Everything Through the Eyes of a First-Time Guest
Have you ever come home from vacation and thought, “Wait, does our house always smell like this?” The same is true for your church. Once you get used to a space, you stop noticing what newcomers see immediately.
We made a habit of walking through our building and asking: Is it cluttered or clean? Clear or confusing? Welcoming or closed off? We cleared out old furniture, added fresh signage, and even installed air fresheners through the vents so the space looked – and smelled – fresh.
Try this: Take a walk around your church and make notes. Do people know where to find the restrooms? Would fresh flowers or plants add warmth? Could you surprise outside groups that use your building with cookies or a thank-you note? Small details send big messages of welcome.
Turning Nuisances Into Opportunities
Our location happens to sit along a popular running route, which means races often block access to our church. Instead of grumbling, we decided to embrace it. Now, our people go out with signs, music & noisemakers to cheer on the runners.
That simple shift made an impact – one young woman living next door stopped by after seeing our cheering section. She’s now an active member and part of a small group.
Ask yourself: What’s happening around your church that could become an opportunity?
- Partner with a nearby school – hand out coffee during morning drop-off.
- Offer your parking lot for families to use on weekends to play on the playground or ride their bikes.
- Join a neighborhood event, not as hosts, but as friendly participants.
Being Bold Enough to Ask
Connection rarely happens by accident. When I meet someone new, I always ask, “Is there a way I can help you feel more connected here?” Then I jot down their name and start thinking about who they might connect with. When I have enough people with something in common – new parents, young couples, empty nesters – I gather them, make introductions, and watch community take root.
Recently, I asked a woman to consider serving on our foundation board. Her reply: “I’m so honored you would think of me.” Sometimes people just need to be asked. Even if they say no, keep their name. They might say yes next time.
Look for natural connection points: life transitions like loss, birth, or kids leaving home are moments to reach out. A simple, “Have you ever thought about serving with…” can spark involvement and belonging.
There are countless ways to help a congregation flourish when we keep asking, “Who’s not here yet?” I’d love to hear your ideas, too. We’re all learning together how to love others first and keep our eyes turned outward.
Written By:
Wendy Lyons Chrostek
Resurrection Brookside Location Pastor
Bio
Wendy is the Location Pastor for Resurrection Brookside. She has served in various positions on our staff since moving to Kansas City in 2009. She and her husband Scott have 2 children, Freddy, who is 10 and Poppy, who is 5. To know Wendy is to know she loves people, loves hearing their stories and connecting them with others. You will most often find her with a cup of coffee in hand and a smile on her face.
