Creating the Right Assimilation and Path for Discipleship

Improving the weekend experience helps you expand the “front door” of your church. But on-ramps and next steps are what “close the back door.” In ministry, the word “assimilation” is often used to describe the process of integrating a new person into the life of a church. A good assimilation process provides a path for people to take. Most assimilation processes flow something like this: First time guests are sent to the welcome center for a gift where their contact info is gathered. The church sends an email or text to follow up, usually sharing more information about the church and its programs, or an upcoming event, like a Bible study. If they return, they are asked to mark "Returning Guest" on their card. If they take that step, the returning guest is usually asked to attend a class, at which the church invites the guest to become a church member. Do you notice any issue with this process? There’s an subtle but underlying assumptio