Five Oaks "Survival" Manual - PARTICIPATING Membership

Ever heard of one of these churches where a big decision needs to be made and members who haven't attended in years show up to vote at a congregational meeting? If not, it happens a few times too often.

But it won't happen at Five Oaks because when we developed our membership structure, we put the emphasis on participating. We've never had membership at Five Oaks, we've only had participating membership because we want membership to mean something. It means you are part of the team and can be counted on to serve in and contribute to Christ's mission. So, if you stop attending, you stop being a member.

Five Oaks "Survival" Manual - Where to Sit

Yes, at Five Oaks we tell you where to sit.

Where should you sit? Where you normally sit. Sit in the same general area every week. (See the one exception to the rule below.)

Why? Because if everyone sits in the same general area every week, you'll be able to identify a guest.

Yeah, sometimes you'll ask a charter member if they're new (they might be coming to a service they don't normally attend), but the vast majority of the time you'll be right. Besides, there aren't that many charter members around. And those that are won't be offended if you think they're new.

But just imagine what kind of an impact you'll have on someones spiritual life if you help them feel welcome. The trajectory of some people's eternal life has been impacted by a genuine welcome. I'm not exaggerating. This can make a huge difference in someones life.

I know, this is hard to do--to sit in the same place. But try it. (Yes, I am kidding. I know you'll do this anyway. I just want you to look around every week for someone new.)

Exception to the Rule: At Hudson, we could use a few more people sitting in the front section and starting a new sitting tradition. After you move to the front section, you can start following this rule. :-)