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10 Church Welcome Speeches You Can Use To Start Strong

Lights, camera, action! 💡🎥🎬

The stage is set, the crowd is buzzing and the worship team is ready to unleash their heavenly melodies. It’s showtime, baby!

But you need more than just a run-of-the-mill church welcome speech and you can’t just make it up on the spot…

No, no, no! You need a great church welcome speech that’s going to welcome first-time visitors and set the right expectations.

Well, look no further because you’ve stumbled upon a goldmine of 10 dynamic church welcome speeches guaranteed to kickstart your service with a bang 💥

So let’s make your next service a service to remember , where hearts are touched, souls are stirred and lives are forever changed.

Here’s what we’ll cover:

What Is A Church Welcome Speech?

5 key elements of a church welcome speech, 10 church welcome speeches you can use, 4 great church welcome speech examples.

A church welcome speech is a brief address delivered at the beginning of a church service, usually by a church MC or worship leader..

More than a mere greeting, a church welcome speech is an opportunity to connect with both new and old faces, create a warm and inviting atmosphere, give valuable information and set the stage for a great worship experience.

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Whether your church is big or small, black or white, Baptist or Pentecostal, in the US or the Philippines, a great church welcome speech has 5 key elements.

Let’s walk through each one 👇

1. A Simple Introduction

The key here is to keep it short and sweet, yet warm and friendly.

As they say: less is more.

Especially when it comes to opening your church service. Say what needs to be said and move on.

A good church welcome officially starts the service and gets everyone focused, so give a quick introduction of yourself and the church.

This can be as simple as “Good morning and welcome to Grace Church. I’m Abi and it’s great to see you all here.”

2. Set Expectations

When done right, the person opening the service can help raise the faith level of your church right before entering into worship.

Help set the tone by giving everyone a general idea of what’s going to happen. You don’t need to give a minute-by-minute breakdown of the service, just a quick overview is good enough.

This is a good place to mention your current sermon series  or special guest speaker if you have one.

3. Give Useful Information

Give everyone the practical information they need to relax and feel comfortable.

Gently remind people to put phones on silent, tell them they’ll be coffee afterwards and point out where the Kid’s Church and bathrooms are.

4. Welcome Visitors

It’s good to take a moment to specifically welcome first-time guests and let them know you’re glad they’re here.

Launching your service this way is not only a great way to make church visitors feel at home :

It also helps outward-focused culture and sends a clear message to members that this is a safe place they can invite their family and friends to.

If your church has visitor connect cards (so you can do follow-up later) ask them to fill them out and drop them in the offering basket as it passes by.

5. End With What’s Next

Now you’ve officially opened up the meeting, it’s time to transition into the next part of the service.

If you’re going into worship, have everyone stand. Lead everyone in a faith-filled prayer welcoming the Holy Spirit to move in hearts and minds.

If it’s the sermon next, thank God for His Word, pray that their hearts and minds be ready to receive what God has to say to his people, then have everyone clap their hands to welcome the preacher.

best church welcome speeches

I’m going to share with you 10 church welcome speech outlines you can use at your next Sunday morning service or church event.

Use these to inspire you and spark new ideas and feel free to adapt them to your local church setting to make them your own.

Church Welcome Speech #1

Good morning and welcome to [CHURCH NAME]. My name’s [YOUR NAME] and if you’re visiting us for the first time here, thank you for coming! It’s great to have you with us.

You’ll find a connect card in [LOCATION], it would be great if you could fill that out – we’d love to get to know you better.

In the next [NUMBER OF MINUTES] we’re going to enjoy a time of worship before [PREACHER NAME] talks to us about [SERMON TOPIC]. It’s going to be good!

Please remember [to collect your children from/turn your phones on silent or any other useful info here].

Please join with me in prayer. [PRAYER].  As the worship team starts playing, let us stand together in singing [SONG TITLE].

Church Welcome Speech #2

Hi! I’m [YOUR NAME] and a very warm welcome to you. It’s so good to see so many smiling faces this morning!

If this is your first time at [CHURCH NAME] I want to extend a special warm welcome to you, it’s great to have you with us.

Please take a moment and fill out the connect card that can be found [LOCATION]. That’ll really help us get to know you a little bit better and know how we can serve or pray for you.

This week we start a brand 4-week series called [SERMON SERIES NAME] where we’re going to be talking about [TOPIC]. I know that God is going to speak to us, amen?

Before I go, let me just remind you that [USEFUL INFO HERE].

That being said, let’s get ready to [NEXT STEP HERE].

OK, let’s pray together. [PRAYER]

Church Welcome Speech #3

Good morning! Welcome to [CHURCH NAME], the place where miracles happen and lives are changed. My name is [YOUR NAME] and whether you’re a longtime member or a first-time visitor, we’re excited to have you with us.

At [CHURCH NAME], we believe that each person who walks through these doors is here for a divine purpose and today, we have a powerful service planned just for you.

We’re gonna dive into worship and lift our voices and hearts in praise to our amazing God. We’ll also have a thought-provoking message that will challenge and inspire you to grow in your faith.

For our first-time visitors, we have a special gift prepared just for you. Be sure to stop by our welcome table after the service to receive your gift and connect with our friendly team members.

Before we proceed, let’s take a moment to greet those around us and extend a warm welcome to everyone in our church family. Go ahead and share a smile, a handshake or even a high-five.

Now let’s prepare our hearts and minds as we enter into a time of worship together and let’s get ready to encounter God in a powerful way.

Church Welcome Speech #4

Before we kick off the service we’d just like to take a moment to welcome everybody to [CHURCH NAME].

We’re thrilled to have you with us today as we worship and seek God’s face and get wisdom from God’s Word.

Before we do that though, just a few important announcements:

This Friday, we have a special prayer night where we will intercede for the needs of our church and community. We invite you to join us. here at [CHURCH NAME] we believe in the power of prayer!

We also have Connect Groups available for all ages where you connect with God and each other.

If you’re interested in joining a connect group or volunteering in one of our service teams, please visit the Connect Corner after the service.

Other than that, all that’s left for me to say is let’s lean in today. Let’s lean with expectant hearts ready to receive what God has for us.

Let’s stand and pray together [PRAYER].

Church Welcome Speech #5

Hello, hello, hello! Is everyone ready to have an amazing time in the presence of God today? I know I am!

My name is [YOUR NAME], and I have the privilege of serving as [YOUR ROLE] here at [CHURCH NAME]. I want to extend a warm welcome to each and every one of you and we ‘re excited to have you here today .

Whether you’re a familiar face or a first-time visitor, [CHURCH NAME] is a place where we come together as a family to celebrate, grow, and encounter the life-transforming power of God.

Today, we have an incredible service planned just for you. Get ready to experience passionate worship and hear a message that I know will speak directly to your heart.

So, once again, welcome to [CHURCH NAME]. Open your hearts, open your minds and expect God to move in a powerful way today.

Now let’s enter into worship together, knowing that we serve a great big God who is faithful and who desires to meet us right where we are.

Let’s pray. [PRAYER]

Church Welcome Speech #6

Good morning everyone and welcome to [CHURCH NAME], a place where normal people encounter an extraordinary God.

Today, we invite you to join us in a worship experience that will stir your soul and draw you closer to God’s presence.

After the service, we encourage you to visit our Connect Corner, where you can learn more about our various connect groups, ministries and service opportunities.

We believe that each person has a unique role to play in building God’s kingdom, and we’d love to help you find your place of service and connection within our church family.

Let’s pray as we have a time of worship and hear God’s Word together. [PRAYER]

Church Welcome Speech #7

Well, well, well! Look who decided to grace us with their presence today. It’s none other than the incredible congregation of [CHURCH NAME]!

Give yourselves a round of applause for making it here on this beautiful day.

My name is [YOUR NAME], and I’m thrilled you could join us for Sunday service.

Before we kick things off, why don’t you spread some joyful vibes and warm welcomes by high-fiving, fist-bumping or jazz-handing the person next to you.

Today is going to be good!

After worship, we’re going to hear a special message from Pastor [NAME] that I know is going to stretch our faith and help us to believe God for more.

So remember to put your phone on silent and of course, feel free to join us for coffee and treats after the service in the [LOCATION]. It’s the perfect opportunity to meet and connect.

And to our first-time visitors, welcome! Grab a welcome pack after the service—it’s filled with goodies and surprises just for you.

Right now we’re going to enter into a time of worship so feel free to stand, sit or dance in the aisles. Where the spirit of the Lord is there is freedom, Amen?

So let’s make a joyful noise!

Church Welcome Speech #8

Hello and a massive welcome to [CHURCH NAME] on this beautiful [CHRISTMAS/EASTER] morning!

My name is [YOUR NAME] and I am so excited to be worshipping with you today. If you’re a visitor with us, thank you so much for coming and celebrating [CHRISTMAS/EASTER] with us.

For those with us for the first time, I’d love it if you could fill out the connect card that’s [LOCATION] and kindly drop it on the offering plate as it comes by. Thank you, this will just help us get to know you better.

I know we’ve got a lot coming up for you today. We’re going to kick things off here with a time of worship before we hear a special [CHRISTMAS/EASTER} message from [PREACHER NAME]. After that [INCLUDE ANY OTHER SPECIAL ELEMENTS].

Please note that [USEFUL INFO HERE].

Right, are we ready? Let’s pray. [PRAYER] [NEXT STEP]

Church Welcome Speech #9

Good morning, friends! Welcome to [CHURCH NAME] and I’m thrilled to be here with you today as we start this incredible worship experience.

Let’s just take a moment to connect with one another. Find someone nearby, give them a warm smile, and let them know how glad you are to see them.

Now, get ready for a time of worship in the presence of God. Then, after worship, we will have a powerful message which will challenge and inspire us in our faith.

If you’re new here, we’re delighted to have you join us. We have visitor connect cards available, where you can share your contact information and any prayer requests you may have.

Feel free to fill out the cards and drop them in the designated box. We would love to connect with you and support you in any way we can.

For families with children aged 3 to 12, we have an exciting Kids Church program available.

And after the service, we invite everyone to join us for a time of fellowship and refreshments in the [LOCATION]. It’s a fantastic opportunity to meet new people.

To our first-time visitors, we extend a special welcome. We’re thrilled that you’ve chosen to worship with us today.

Please feel free to approach our friendly volunteers at the welcome desk, who will be more than happy to assist you, answer any questions you may have, and provide you with a small gift as a token of our appreciation.

Now, let’s enter into a time of worship. Let’s lift our voices, open our hearts and invite the Holy Spirit to fill this place.

Church Welcome Speech #10

Good morning, everyone! Welcome to [CHURCH NAME]! It’s wonderful to see so many beautiful faces here this morning!

Now, if you’re joining us for the first time today, we want to extend a special welcome to you. Would you please stand?

Let’s give them a warm round of applause, everyone! It’s great to have you!

Our ushers will be coming around with a special welcome pack designed just for you. It contains helpful information about our church, upcoming events, and ways to get connected.

We want you to feel at home and supported as you explore what our church has to offer. Don’t hesitate to ask our ushers any questions you may have or let them know how we can serve you better.

Before we dive into a time of worship and listen to a great word from Pastor [NAME] I have just a couple of announcements.

Firstly, I want to invite you all to join us this coming Friday for our special prayer night. It’s a powerful time of seeking God’s presence and interceding for our church, community, and the world. Mark your calendars and be part of this transformative experience.

Also, if you’re not already part of a connect group, we have an incredible network of connect groups across the city that meet every Wednesday where you can grow in your relationship with God and one another.

We have a Connect Table at the back where you can find out more so be sure to visit after the service.

Once again, thank you to each and every one of you for being with us and we know where 2 or more are gathered in His name, He is here with us, amen?

Let’s stand together and pray as we enter into worship. [PRAYER]

I wanted to end things here with some real-life examples and give you my thoughts on what I think works well. 

It’s good to keep your speeches becoming predictable by mixing them up a little.

Here are 4 different styles and approaches you could take in your church:

1. The Comedic Approach

What a clever and funny way to open the service! Almost rapping, he does a great job of welcoming visitors, having them stand while the church applauds.

I also like how he sets expectations, saying “Today is Youth Sunday” .

YouTube video

2. The Evangelistic Approach

This wonderful woman has a really warm but powerful way of welcoming people to the church.

She starts off by getting people ready to worship and hear the Word. This can be a powerful way to set the tone for the rest of the service.

She introduces the church pastors and even points them out individually. This might work well depending on your style of church.

I was surprised to hear her nearly do an alter call saying “Don’t leave here today without knowing Jesus.”

She’s passionate and friendly, everything you want in someone giving the welcome at your church.

YouTube video

3. The Helpful Approach

This welcome takes less than a minute but works really well and is a great example of how we can make our church services more welcoming for guests.

He leads by introducing himself saying he’s part of the hospitality team and makes himself available if he can help them in any way, right before asking first-time visitors to stand up and thank them for coming.

YouTube video

4. The Faith-Fuelled Approach

This next one is short and sweet, but it’s a masterclass on how to use your church welcome speech to raise the faith level through the roof!

YouTube video

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Over To You

There you go – you now have 10 church welcome speeches to choose from for next Sunday!

If you really want to mix it up then take a look at these 36 church welcome poems .

And if you found this post useful, be sure to check out our step-by-step guides:

  • How To Make Church Visitors Feel Welcome
  • How To Make A Church Welcome Pack
  • 5 Common-Sense Church Greeting Tips
  • 10 Ways To Get More First-Time People Into Your Church
  • How To Be A Church MC: Tips & Scripts For Seamless Services

Now it’s time to hand it over to you:

What do you say in your church welcome speech?

And do you have any tips for giving a better welcome speech at the start of the service?

Let us know in the comments below! 🙏

18 thoughts on “10 Church Welcome Speeches You Can Use To Start Strong”

this is awesome, thanks for the ideas

Very helpful, thanks for sharing

These guide lines are very good and they are very brief

God bless you

Thanks you for that Spiritual Food,God Bless you Always.

Right back at ya Lynn! You got this! 🙂

These guidelines are super. God richly bless you.. I

This was very helpful

thank you so much it is very helpful

very helpful and we’ll articulated

You made a good point that having a strong welcome speech that has emphasis on evangelization can help a lot in making the people ready for worship. I’m planning to get church worship services for my neighborhood association that will be celebrating its foundation day on December. If the quarantine has been lifted by then, I think having a thanksgiving Mass would be ideal for that gathering.

Very helpful, glad I found your site.

Thanks so much for this write up. I found it when looking for welcome Speech. It’s very detailed. Thanks

Great examples/ very usecul

I feel so bless coming across your site. I was assigned to do a welcome remark and I was about to refuse but thought of like saying “no” to Jesus. I prayed for guidance and Holy Spirit led me to it. Thank you for the wonderful ideas. Bless you Bishop!

I’m the one welcoming new members to church next Sunday… God bless you for this.. I really need it

Bishop T. Randolph January 4, 2019 I love it!!! This is what I was used to growing up; This has been forsaken in many churches, even in my own. I shall re-enter this in our church services. To God be the glory and I thank God for you and His leading me to your site! We pray you be forever blessed in your purpose for God,The Father!

This is awesome God bless you

Bless you too, I’m glad you found these welcome speeches helpful!

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Exciting Welcome Speeches for Churches: 29+ Examples to Choose From

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As a pastor, assistant pastor, or church leader, writing a welcome speech for the church is likely one of your duties or soon will be. These words of welcome are crucial, as they not only greet both new and long-time members of the congregation but also establish the tone for the message. In this comprehensive guide, we provide tips on delivering an excellent welcome speech, along with a remarkable collection of examples that you can use as-is or modify to suit your requirements.

introduction speech before holy mass

Table of Contents

Your complete guide to giving welcome speeches in church.

  • Examples of Welcome Speeches for Church
  • General Welcome Speech for Sunday Service
  • Welcome Address for Visitors and New Members
  • Opening Welcome for a Special Worship Event
  • Welcome Speech for a Baptism Ceremony
  • Greeting for a Youth Group Gathering
  • Welcome Address for Church Anniversary Celebration
  • Acknowledgment of Volunteers and Servant Leaders
  • Warm Welcome for a Fellowship or Coffee Hour
  • Introduction for a Guest Speaker or Pastor
  • Greetings for a Wedding Ceremony
  • Welcome Speech for a Women’s Ministry Event
  • Opening Remarks for a Church Business Meeting
  • Welcome for a Memorial or Funeral Service
  • Acknowledgment of Sunday School Teachers and Students
  • Warm Greetings for a Christmas Eve Service
  • Introduction for a Music or Choir Performance
  • Welcome Address for a Church Convention
  • Greeting for a Graduation Ceremony
  • Introduction for a Missionary or Outreach Program
  • Acknowledgment of Church Elders and Leaders
  • Opening Welcome for a Thanksgiving Service
  • Warm Greetings for a Church Picnic or BBQ
  • Welcome Speech for a Confirmation Service
  • Introduction for a Special Children’s Program
  • Greetings for a Church Fundraising Event
  • Welcome Address for a Seasonal Event (e.g., Easter, Advent)
  • Warm Welcome for a Volunteer Appreciation Event
  • Acknowledgment of Long-time Church Members
  • Closing Remarks for a Church Event or Service

ChurchPlus Introduction

Most young people these days do not attend church regularly, perceiving the services as dull or restrictive. To expand your congregation, you must take measures to ensure that everyone feels welcome, and giving great welcome speeches is one way to achieve that. However, mastering the art of giving welcome speeches in the church can be challenging. What tone should the best speeches adopt? How can you be inclusive without being too direct? What other actions should you take aside from speaking?

1. Tailor Your Speech for Every Occasion

To deliver an effective welcome speech, it’s crucial to understand the nature of the event you’re welcoming your guests to. For an average Sunday service, your tone should be positive and encouraging, while for a more solemn occasion like a funeral, a more serious tone may be more appropriate.

Your speech should also provide practical information, such as the duration of the service or whether food will be served, and include a brief description of the event to give the audience a sense of what to expect.

If you’re uncertain about what to include in your welcome speech for church, you can refer to church quotes and speech ideas for guidance. Opening with a prayer is usually appropriate, and if you’re struggling with writer’s block, leading the congregation in a prayer that reflects the event’s theme or reading a relevant passage from the Bible or another religious text can also be effective.

2. Give a Warm and Welcoming Greeting

When delivering a welcome speech, it’s important, to begin with, a brief introduction of yourself. Simply stating your name is sufficient, although you may include additional details. If you are a pastor or priest from another church, it’s helpful to mention this to avoid confusion with other staff members.

After the introduction, you can transition into the body of your speech. A statement such as “I am delighted to welcome all of you” can serve as a greeting to your audience and help you move forward.

Avoid using cliches such as “I welcome you on behalf of…” as they have lost their impact due to frequent use. Additionally, it’s best to avoid introducing someone else unless specifically requested.

When delivering the greeting, maintain a smile and raise the pitch of your voice slightly. Gesturing with an open palm signifies hospitality and openness.

Finally, when greeting anyone who joins you on stage, be sure to say their name and title, and provide a brief overview of what they will be discussing. Avoid asking for applause, as the audience will typically applaud naturally.

3. Evoke Emotions

Aside from smiling and using varied tones, employ creative language and dynamic verbs to inspire and captivate your audience. Avoid overusing adverbs or adjectives, and instead, seek out verbs with comparable meanings. For instance, “We’ll get through that quickly” can be phrased as “We’ll speed through that.”

While some speakers use humor to entertain their audience, it may not always be appropriate or effective, especially on somber occasions. If you choose to tell a joke, opt for puns or wordplay instead of potentially offensive material. Avoid making jokes at someone else’s expense and be cautious with self-deprecation. Experiment with rhyming as another way to connect ideas and capture your audience’s attention.

4. Keep It Short

Welcome speeches typically do not exceed 150 words. Avoid lengthy exegesis of the Bible or introducing a guest during this time. Simply convey the necessary information to commence the occasion and proceed. Try drafting your speech verbatim and then revise to eliminate any unnecessary details, in addition to adverbs and adjectives. If the priest or pastor will address specific points later, exclude them from your speech.

Announcements and in-house business should be postponed for another opportunity. Reminders for upcoming events can be disseminated through emails and text messages.

When welcoming worshippers, aim to appeal to first-time visitors. Avoid using phrases such as “Welcome members of my church,” and instead try using inclusive language such as “Welcome brothers and sisters.”

It’s also helpful to acknowledge first-time visitors by saying something like, “We’re glad you’re here with us today.” However, avoid singling them out by name or making them feel uncomfortable. Providing directions to key areas of the church, such as the welcome center or restrooms, can also be useful, especially in larger churches.

To put first-time visitors at ease, consider mentioning that they are not expected to participate in singing or stand up during the service. While you should avoid promoting upcoming events, it is okay to mention that your church meets every week and that visitors are welcome to join for the next service. Additionally, consider inviting newcomers to a gathering specifically designed for them.

5. Practice, Again, Perfect!

Write a draft and read it aloud to ensure its coherence. Then rehearse gestures and facial expressions in front of a mirror. Record your speech to identify areas for improvement and rehearse those parts until perfect. During delivery, maintain eye contact with the audience and avoid focusing on a single person. Lastly, get feedback from the service leader and other speakers to avoid repetition and ensure a smooth introduction.

introduction speech before holy mass

General Welcome Speech Examples

1. welcome speech for sunday service.

Good morning/afternoon/evening, [Church Name] family!

I am truly honored to stand before you today as we come together for another blessed Sunday service. Whether you’ve been a part of this faith community for years or if today is your first time worshiping with us, I extend a warm and heartfelt welcome to each and every one of you.

On this beautiful Sunday, we gather not just as individuals but as a family of believers, united in our devotion to Christ. Our service today holds the promise of inspiration, connection, and the joy that comes from shared worship.

As we embark on this sacred time together, I want to take a moment to express my gratitude for your presence. Your commitment to being here, to sharing in this fellowship, is a testament to the strength and unity of our congregation.

Let us approach this service with hearts open to the divine, ready to be moved by the spirit of love and grace. Today, as we lift our voices in song, bow our heads in prayer, and reflect on the teachings of our faith, may the emotions stirred within us deepen our connection with God and with one another.

Before we dive into the heart of our service, I want to emphasize brevity. Our time together is precious, and I want to respect the rhythm of our worship. Today’s service holds the promise of spiritual nourishment, and I encourage each of you to engage fully in the moments we share.

In closing, let me express my joy in seeing familiar faces and extend a special welcome to those joining us for the first time. Your presence enriches our worship, and we are truly blessed to have you with us.

As we embark on this Sunday service, may the peace of the Lord be with you all. Let our worship be a source of inspiration and renewal for the week ahead.

Thank you for being here. Let us now enter into this time of worship with open hearts and eager spirits. Amen.

Please note : The ChurchPlus Messaging system offers a dynamic platform for sharing these speeches through email, SMS, voice, and WhatsApp with your members. To explore further and sign up, please visit: https:// my.churchplus .co/register . Additionally, for a comprehensive solution for your church’s general database management and financial needs, visit https://churchplus.co

2. Welcome Address For Visitors and New Members

I stand before you today with immense joy and a heart full of gratitude as we gather in the spirit of fellowship and worship. To those who are visiting us for the first time, and to our new members who have recently joined our faith community, I extend a heartfelt welcome to [Church Name].

This is a special moment in our church family, as we open our doors not just to a service but to new friendships, new connections, and new stories of faith. Your presence here is a blessing, and we are genuinely thrilled to have you with us.

To our guests, whether you walked through our doors out of curiosity or seeking a spiritual home, we’re honored that you chose to be here. To our new members, your decision to become a part of our community warms our hearts, and we are excited for the journey of faith we’ll share together.

As we come together, let us recognize that the church is more than a building; it’s a living, breathing community. It’s a family bound by love, strengthened by faith, and sustained by each and every member. Today, we celebrate the expansion of this family with open arms and open hearts.

Before we continue with our service, let me emphasize the brevity of this moment. We recognize that time is precious, and we want to respect yours. Today’s service is not just an event; it’s an opportunity for all of us to grow in our faith and deepen our connections.

To our guests, we invite you to consider this not just as a one-time visit but as the beginning of a beautiful journey. Feel free to explore, ask questions, and engage with our community. And to our new members, welcome to a family that stands by you, supports you, and rejoices in your journey of faith.

Once again, to our visitors and new members, thank you for gracing us with your presence. We hope that today’s service is a reflection of the love that defines our church. As we continue, may you feel at home, connected, and inspired.

May the peace of the Lord be with each and every one of you. Let us now proceed with our worship together. Amen.

3. Opening Welcome for a Special Worship Event

Good [morning/afternoon/evening], [Church Name] Family and Beloved Guests!

It is with hearts full of anticipation and gratitude that we gather today for a worship experience that goes beyond the ordinary. Whether you are a familiar face in our congregation or a cherished guest joining us for this special occasion, we extend a warm and sincere welcome to each one of you.

Today is no ordinary Sunday; it’s a moment in time where we purposefully set aside the routine to embrace the extraordinary. We’re here to encounter the divine, to seek a deeper connection, and to let the spirit of worship envelop us.

To our guests, your presence enhances our worship, and we are honored to have you share in this sacred time. To our [Church Name] family, thank you for being the heartbeat of this community. Your commitment to worship and fellowship is the foundation upon which moments like these are built.

As we embark on this special worship event, let us be mindful of the emotions that may stir within us. Let joy rise, let gratitude overflow, and let the peace that surpasses all understanding find a dwelling place in our hearts.

Before we dive into the heart of our worship, let me emphasize brevity. Today’s event is crafted with intention, each element carrying a message, each moment an opportunity for divine connection. So, let’s treasure this time and engage fully in the beauty of worship.

In the next few moments, let’s transcend the ordinary and enter into a space of reverence and awe. Together, let’s lift our voices, bow our heads, and open our hearts to the divine presence that is here with us.

Thank you for being present at this special worship event. May the grace of God permeate every note of our music, every word spoken, and every prayer uttered. May this be a time of spiritual encounter, renewal, and transformation.

May our worship today be a sweet fragrance rising to the heavens. Let us now enter into this sacred time of worship with expectation and anticipation. Amen.

4. Welcome Speech for a Baptism Ceremony

Good [morning/afternoon/evening], [Church Name] Family and Honored Guests!

It is with immense joy and a deep sense of reverence that we come together today to celebrate a profoundly sacred and joyous occasion—the baptism of [Name], a cherished soul on their journey of faith.

This baptism ceremony is not just a ritual; it’s a sacred step in one’s spiritual journey. Today, we witness a commitment to a life guided by the teachings of Christ, and it’s a privilege to share in this moment with each of you.

To the family and friends who have gathered to witness and support, your presence adds warmth and love to this sacred event. To our [Church Name] family, thank you for embracing [Name] and their family into the embrace of our faith community.

As we stand on the threshold of this baptismal ceremony, let us allow our hearts to be stirred with emotions of joy, hope, and gratitude. This is a moment of divine grace, a moment that marks a new beginning in [Name]’s spiritual journey.

Before we proceed, let me express the importance of brevity in this sacred time. The focus is not on the words we say but on the profound act of baptism itself—the symbolic immersion into the divine grace and the embrace of God’s love.

Baptism is a sacred sacrament, a visible sign of an invisible grace. It symbolizes the washing away of sin, the rebirth of the spirit, and the beginning of a life lived in accordance with Christ’s teachings.

To all present, you are not merely spectators today; you are witnesses to a significant moment in [Name]’s spiritual journey. As we immerse [Name] into the waters of baptism, let us collectively reaffirm our commitment to support and nurture their growth in faith.

In conclusion, let me express our collective joy in witnessing this baptism ceremony. May the waters of baptism bring not only a physical cleansing but a spiritual renewal that echoes through [Name]’s life.

As we proceed, let our hearts be open, our prayers sincere, and our joy contagious. Thank you for being part of this blessed occasion. May the grace of God guide us as we celebrate this sacred act of baptism. Amen.

5. Greeting for a Youth Group Gathering

Good [morning/afternoon/evening], awesome young souls of [Church Name]! It’s electrifying to see this room filled with the vibrant energy that only our youth can bring. Whether you’re a regular here or it’s your first time joining our youth group, welcome!

Today isn’t just any gathering; it’s a convergence of youthful spirits, a space where faith, fun, and friendship collide. I’m thrilled to embark on this journey with each one of you.

To our returning youth, welcome back! Your presence is the heartbeat of this youth group. To our new friends, whether you’re here out of curiosity, seeking connection, or just to hang out, we’re stoked to have you with us.

As we gather today, let’s tap into that unique blend of excitement and camaraderie that defines our youth group. Let laughter echo, let friendships deepen, and let the joy of being in God’s presence be our guiding light.

Before we plunge into the heart of our gathering, a quick shoutout for brevity – we know your time is precious. Today’s about quality moments, impactful connections, and a whole lot of fun.

In a world that’s constantly buzzing with noise, demands, and distractions, our youth group stands as a sanctuary—a space where authenticity is celebrated, questions are welcome, and where we learn and grow together.

So, whether you’re here for the games, the discussions, or just to soak in the good vibes, know that you belong here. Engage, participate, and let’s make today a memory worth cherishing.

As we kick off this youth group gathering, let the energy be contagious, the connections meaningful, and the laughter infectious. Let’s dive in, be present, and create moments that resonate with the vitality of our youth.

Thank you for bringing your enthusiasm to [Church Name]’s youth group. Let’s make this gathering epic! Get ready for an awesome time together. Amen!

introduction speech before holy mass

6. Welcome Address for Church Anniversary Celebration

Greetings, Beloved [Church Name] Family and Distinguished Guests!

A joyous and blessed [morning/afternoon/evening] to each one of you as we gather today to celebrate a momentous milestone—[Church Name]’s [Xth] Anniversary! What an extraordinary occasion it is to stand together, reflecting on the rich tapestry of our shared journey.

Today, our hearts beat as one in celebration. We’re not just marking the passage of years but commemorating a legacy of faith, growth, and unwavering commitment to God’s grace.

To our long-standing members, whose dedication has been the cornerstone of our church, thank you for your enduring commitment. To our guests and friends who join us in this celebration, your presence is a gift that adds to the richness of our joy.

As we stand on this anniversary milestone, let us be enveloped by emotions of gratitude for the countless blessings, joy for the shared memories, and hope for the vibrant future that awaits us.

Before we immerse ourselves in the festivities, let me emphasize brevity. Today’s celebration isn’t about lengthy speeches; it’s about savoring the essence of our journey and embracing the unity that defines our [Church Name] family.

From the humble beginnings that laid our foundation to the vibrant community we are today, this anniversary is a testament to the grace that has guided us, the challenges that have strengthened us, and the love that binds us together.

As we celebrate, let’s take a moment to reflect on the lives transformed within these walls, the prayers that have been lifted, and the impact we’ve had on our community. Each of you has contributed to the beautiful story that is [Church Name].

In closing, thank you for being a part of this significant moment in [Church Name]’s history. May our celebration today be a reflection of the faith that unites us, the hope that inspires us, and the love that binds us together.

Here’s to [X] years of faith, fellowship, and a future filled with God’s grace. Let the celebration begin! Amen.

7. Acknowledgment of Volunteers and Servant Leaders

Dear [Church Name] Family and Esteemed Volunteers,

It is with profound gratitude and a heart brimming with appreciation that I stand before you today to acknowledge the unsung heroes who are the lifeblood of our community—our dedicated volunteers and servant leaders.

On this [morning/afternoon/evening], as we come together in worship, let us pause and turn our attention to those whose selfless service embodies the very essence of Christ’s teachings.

To our volunteers—both the visible faces and those who work tirelessly behind the scenes—thank you! Your commitment to the work of the church is the driving force behind the seamless functioning of our ministries.

In recognizing our volunteers and servant leaders, let us be moved by the emotions of gratitude, admiration, and awe. Their dedication fuels the spirit of our community and creates a tapestry of love and support.

Before we continue with our service, let me emphasize brevity. While the impact of our volunteers is immeasurable, today is about expressing our appreciation succinctly, acknowledging the incredible work that often goes unseen.

To our servant leaders, you exemplify Christ’s teachings through your sacrifice and service. Your willingness to step forward, take on responsibilities, and lead by example is a testament to your deep commitment to our faith community.

As a congregation, let’s take a moment to reflect on the countless hours, the late nights, and the unwavering dedication that our volunteers and servant leaders contribute to the vibrant tapestry of our church.

In conclusion, dear volunteers and servant leaders, your efforts do not go unnoticed. Your service is a reflection of God’s love in action, and we are blessed to have each one of you as an integral part of our [Church Name] family.

May your hearts be filled with the joy of knowing that your work makes a difference. As we continue our worship today, let us carry in our hearts a deep appreciation for the volunteers and servant leaders who embody the spirit of Christ’s love.

Thank you for your service, dedication, and the love you pour into [Church Name]. Amen.

introduction speech before holy mass

8. Warm Welcome for a Fellowship or Coffee Hour

Greetings, Cherished [Church Name] Community!

Good [morning/afternoon/evening] to each of you, and what a delight it is to gather together for a time of fellowship and warmth. Today, as we step into this sacred space of connection, whether you’re a familiar face or a first-time visitor, you are genuinely and warmly welcomed.

This is more than a coffee hour; it’s a space where conversations flow like a gentle stream, laughter echoes like a melody, and friendships are nurtured. It’s a time to pause, to savor, and to build the bonds that make our church family truly special.

To our longtime members, your presence here adds the comforting familiarity that makes our fellowship complete. To those who are joining us for the first time, your arrival brings a new energy that enriches our community. Welcome!

As we enter this fellowship, let us be mindful of the warmth that emanates from these connections. It’s more than just sharing a cup of coffee; it’s about sharing moments, stories, and the simple joys that make our community thrive.

Before we delve into the joyous conversations and delightful refreshments, let me emphasize brevity. Today is about creating space for connection, so let’s keep our greetings concise and our hearts open.

Our fellowship is a testament to the strength of our community. In this shared space, we find solace, encouragement, and the support that defines our [Church Name] family. Each one of you contributes to the vibrant tapestry of our community life.

So, let’s take a moment to turn to those around us, greet one another with a warm smile, and extend a hand in friendship. Whether you’re catching up with old friends or making new ones, let this be a time of genuine connection.

In closing, thank you for being a part of this fellowship, for bringing your unique presence into this gathering. May the conversations be rich, the laughter be contagious, and the bonds we forge today deepen with every shared moment.

Let the warmth of fellowship envelop us, and may this time together be a beautiful reflection of the love that defines our [Church Name] family. Enjoy the fellowship, everyone! Amen.

9. Introduction for a Guest Speaker or Pastor

Ladies and Gentlemen, Esteemed [Church Name] Family, and Honored Guests,

A moment of anticipation and honor is upon us as we gather today, and I am privileged to stand before you to introduce a voice that carries both wisdom and inspiration. It is with great pleasure that I introduce our esteemed guest speaker/pastor for today’s service.

In our midst today is a person whose presence not only graces our sanctuary but brings with it a wealth of knowledge, passion, and a deep connection to the divine.

Our guest speaker/pastor today [Speaker’s Name/Pastor’s Name] comes to us with a wealth of experience in [mention relevant background, e.g., ministry, community service, etc.]. Their journey is marked by a commitment to [mention any notable achievements or contributions].

What makes [Speaker’s Name/Pastor’s Name]’s presence even more special is their alignment with the theme/message that resonates with our hearts and the spiritual journey we are on as a congregation.

So, with hearts open wide and spirits eager to receive, let us extend a warm [Church Name] welcome to [Speaker’s Name/Pastor’s Name]. We are eager to glean wisdom, find inspiration, and deepen our connection with the divine through the words and teachings that will be shared with us today.

May this be a moment of enlightenment, connection, and spiritual growth. Please join me in welcoming [Speaker’s Name/Pastor’s Name] with the warmth and enthusiasm that defines our [Church Name] family. Thank you.

Let us now eagerly anticipate the words that will enrich our hearts and guide us on our spiritual journey. Amen.

10. Greetings for a Wedding Ceremony

Ladies and Gentlemen, Family and Friends,

A radiant [morning/afternoon/evening] to each and every one of you, as we gather in the glow of love to witness and celebrate the union of two souls embarking on a journey together. What a joyous occasion this is!

Today is more than a ceremony; it is a celebration of love, a testament to the enduring power of commitment, and a gathering of hearts rejoicing in the beauty of unity.

To the families who have brought us here, thank you for allowing us to share in this sacred moment. To the friends who have gathered, your presence adds to the tapestry of joy that envelops this day.

As we stand witness to this union, let our hearts be stirred with emotions of love, joy, and hope. Today, we celebrate not only the love between [Partner 1] and [Partner 2] but also the love that surrounds and uplifts them.

Marriage is a journey of shared dreams, mutual support, and unwavering commitment. Today, we bear witness to the promise of a lifetime—a promise to stand together through all seasons of life.

Before we delve into the heart of this ceremony, let me emphasize brevity. Today is about the essence of love and commitment, and I invite you to savor each moment as we celebrate this beautiful union.

So, let us celebrate the love that has brought us together. As we witness the exchange of vows and rings, let our hearts resonate with the joy of this union.

In closing, thank you for being part of this extraordinary day. May the love that surrounds us today be a source of inspiration, and may the journey that [Partner 1] and [Partner 2] embark upon be blessed with love, laughter, and countless shared moments.

To love and to cherish, let us now begin this beautiful celebration of unity. Amen.

11. Welcome Speech for a Women’s Ministry Event

Ladies and Gentlemen, Sisters in Faith, and Cherished Guests,

A warm and heartfelt welcome to this gathering of strength, grace, and sisterhood. Today, we come together not only as women of faith but as a community bonded by the power of love and shared purpose. Welcome to our [Church Name] Women’s Ministry Event!

This event is more than a gathering; it is a celebration of the incredible spirit that resides within each woman present. It is a testament to the unique gifts, resilience, and profound impact that women bring to our faith community.

To our beloved sisters who walk this journey of faith with us, thank you for gracing us with your presence. To our honored guests, your arrival adds an extra layer of joy and diversity to our sisterhood. Welcome!

As we stand united today, let our hearts be filled with emotions of love, empowerment, and gratitude. This is a space where we uplift one another, celebrate our individual and collective strength, and honor the unique contributions each woman brings to our community.

In the tapestry of our faith, each of you is a vibrant thread. Our Women’s Ministry is a reflection of the sisterhood we share—the bonds that go beyond words, the understanding that transcends time, and the support that strengthens us in both joy and challenge.

Before we immerse ourselves in the heart of this event, let me emphasize brevity. Today is about celebrating, connecting, and embracing the unity that defines our Women’s Ministry.

So, let us connect, share, and uplift one another. Whether you’re a familiar face or a new friend, this is a space where every woman belongs, and every voice is valued.

In closing, thank you for being a part of this special Women’s Ministry Event. May the conversations be rich, the connections meaningful, and the sisterhood we share today inspire us to embrace the unique journey each one of us is on.

To the strength of women, the beauty of sisterhood, and the love that binds us together, let the event begin! Amen.

12. Opening Remarks for a Church Business Meeting

Dear [Church Name] Members and Leaders,

A warm and respectful greeting to each of you as we convene for this important Church Business Meeting. Today marks a significant moment in our journey as a faith community—a time when we come together to discuss matters that shape the direction of our shared mission.

The strength of any community lies in its ability to come together, share perspectives, and make decisions that propel us forward. Today, we gather not just as individuals but as stewards of a collective vision.

To our dedicated leaders, members, and guests, I extend a warm welcome. Your presence here signifies a commitment to the growth and well-being of our church family. Thank you for being here.

As we delve into the agenda before us, let us be mindful of the unity that binds us together. Our shared faith, purpose, and love for this church create a foundation upon which we can build and thrive.

Before we dive into the details, let me emphasize brevity. Our time together is precious, and our discussions today are focused on strengthening our church community. Let’s proceed with efficiency and purpose.

Our church is not just a building; it is a living, breathing community made vibrant by the contributions of each member. Your dedication to our various ministries, your prayers, and your support are the threads that weave the fabric of our shared mission.

Today is an invitation to open dialogue, a space where every voice is valued. Your insights and perspectives are crucial as we navigate the path ahead. Let us approach our discussions with respect, openness, and a collective commitment to the greater good.

In conclusion, thank you for your commitment to [Church Name]. May our discussions be guided by wisdom, our decisions be grounded in love, and may our collective efforts lead to the continued growth and flourishing of our church family.

Let us proceed with a spirit of unity and purpose. May this business meeting be a reflection of the faith and love that define our [Church Name] community. Amen.

ChurchPlus Introduction

13. Welcome for a Memorial or Funeral Service

Ladies and Gentlemen, Beloved Family, and Friends,

With heavy hearts, we gather today to remember, honor, and say farewell to a cherished soul who has touched our lives in profound ways. Although we come together in grief, let this be a time of reflection, love, and shared remembrance as we celebrate the life of [Name].

In the midst of sorrow, let us acknowledge the weight of our grief. The passing of [Name] leaves a void that words cannot fill. Today, we gather not only to mourn but to find solace in the memories that will forever remain etched in our hearts.

To the family and friends who mourn, we extend a compassionate welcome. Your presence here is a testament to the love and impact [Name] had on each of us. As we navigate this difficult journey together, may our shared sorrow be a source of strength.

As we walk through the corridors of memory, let us remember [Name] not for their final moments but for the beautiful tapestry of moments we shared. In each smile, in every shared laughter, and in the warmth of their presence, let us find comfort.

Before we proceed, let me emphasize the gentleness of this moment. Grief has its own rhythm, and today, we honor that rhythm. Let the tears flow, the memories linger, and the love we shared with [Name] be the balm that soothes our aching hearts.

To those who have come to offer comfort and support, thank you. Your presence is a light in our darkness, a reminder that, even in our grief, we are not alone.

As we gather in this sacred space, let us reflect on the legacy [Name] leaves behind. Their impact, their kindness, and the love they shared are the gifts that will continue to resonate in our lives.

In closing, may the memories we share today be a tribute to a life well-lived. Let us find solace in the company of one another, draw strength from the shared love we have for [Name], and carry their spirit with us as we navigate the path ahead.

May [Name]’s soul rest in peace, and may each of us find comfort in the love we shared and the memories that will forever bind us together. Amen.

14. Acknowledgment of Sunday School Teachers and Students

Dear [Church Name] Family,

As we stand here in the warmth of our shared faith, let us take a moment to shine a light on the dedicated individuals who play an instrumental role in nurturing the hearts and minds of our younger members—the Sunday School teachers and students.

To our Sunday School teachers, you are the guiding lights, the storytellers of faith, and the mentors who plant the seeds of wisdom in the fertile soil of young hearts. Your commitment to sharing the teachings of Christ shapes the foundation upon which our children’s faith will flourish.

To the bright and eager faces that grace our Sunday School classrooms, you are the blossoming flowers of our congregation. Your curiosity, enthusiasm, and open hearts are a testament to the beauty of faith in its purest form.

In acknowledging our Sunday School teachers and students, let our hearts be stirred with emotions of joy, gratitude, and admiration. The energy and vitality that flow through our Sunday School are a testament to the vibrancy of our faith community.

Before we proceed further, let me emphasize the graciousness of this moment. Sunday School is not just an educational space; it is a haven where bonds are formed, lessons are learned, and the love of Christ is embraced. Today, we express our gratitude for this sacred journey.

As we acknowledge our Sunday School teachers and students, let us reflect on the impact of their shared journey. The lessons taught, the friendships formed, and the spiritual growth witnessed are the fruits of their collective efforts.

In closing, thank you, Sunday School teachers, for your selfless dedication. Your commitment to nurturing the next generation of believers is a gift that reverberates through the very soul of our church.

To our Sunday School students, thank you for your curiosity, your energy, and the light you bring into our congregation. May the lessons learned in these classrooms be a beacon that guides you on your journey of faith.

Together, let us celebrate the beautiful tapestry of our Sunday School—a place where faith blossoms, friendships flourish, and the love of Christ is sown in every lesson. Amen.

15. Warm Greetings for a Christmas Eve Service

Dear Beloved [Church Name] Family,

In the tender glow of candlelight and the spirit of joy that envelops this sacred space, a heartfelt welcome to each and every one of you on this magical Christmas Eve. Tonight, as we gather to celebrate the birth of our Savior, let our hearts be filled with the warmth of love, the melody of hope, and the promise of peace.

To our cherished members, guests, and those joining us for the first time, your presence adds a special grace to our Christmas celebration. Thank you for being part of this beautiful tapestry of faith and fellowship.

Christmas Eve is not merely a night on the calendar; it is a sacred moment when the heavens draw close to Earth, and the divine light bathes us in its gentle radiance. It is a time to rejoice, reflect, and be embraced by the love that descended from the manger.

As we stand on the brink of this holy night, let our hearts be stirred with emotions of gratitude, wonder, and the timeless joy that accompanies the Christmas story. Tonight, we immerse ourselves in the magic that unfolds in Bethlehem—a story of love and redemption.

Before we continue, let me emphasize the tenderness of this moment. Christmas is a time of vulnerability, where the innocence of a child in a manger beckons us to embrace the simplicity and purity of God’s gift to humanity.

In the soft glow of candlelight, let us reflect on the gift of love bestowed upon us—the birth of Jesus Christ. May the flickering flames remind us of the eternal flame of hope that burns within our hearts.

In closing, thank you for being part of this cherished Christmas Eve tradition. May the carols we sing, the prayers we offer, and the moments we share be a testament to the boundless love that defines this holy night.

May the peace of Christmas be with you, and may the joy of this season fill your hearts with everlasting warmth. From our [Church Name] family to yours, Merry Christmas! Amen.

16. Introduction for a Music or Choir Performance

Ladies and Gentlemen, Esteemed Guests, and Beloved [Church Name] Family,

A harmonious and joyous welcome to each of you as we gather for a celebration that promises to uplift our spirits and resonate in the deepest chambers of our hearts—a musical extravaganza brought to life by the gifted voices of our [Church Name] Choir.

Tonight, we have the distinct privilege of being serenaded by the extraordinary talents of our choir members. Their voices, like cascading melodies, have the power to transport us to realms of inspiration, joy, and spiritual elevation.

For those who may be new to our community or unfamiliar with the choir, [Church Name] Choir is a collective of dedicated individuals who bring together their diverse talents to create a tapestry of worship through song. Their commitment and passion shine through each note, making their performances truly special.

As we delve into tonight’s musical journey, let us be mindful of the theme that threads through the selection of songs. Each lyric, each chord, is carefully chosen to resonate with the core of our faith, reflecting the timeless stories and messages that bind us together.

Before the first note fills the air, let us take a moment to express our appreciation for the countless hours of rehearsal, the dedication to perfection, and the love for music that our choir members pour into their performances.

As we embark on this musical adventure, let me emphasize the engagement of this experience. Feel free to let the music move you, to close your eyes and be transported, and to immerse yourself in the divine symphony that is about to unfold.

In closing, thank you for being part of this musical celebration. May the melodies that grace our ears tonight resonate in our hearts long after the final note. Without further ado, I invite you to sit back, be enchanted, and let the music speak to your soul.

Ladies and gentlemen, I present to you the extraordinary talents of our [Church Name] Choir. Enjoy the performance!

17. Welcome Address for a Church Convention

Dear [Church Name] Family, Esteemed Guests, and Fellow Believers,

A resounding welcome to each of you as we gather under the banner of faith and unity for this momentous occasion—the [Year] [Church Name] Church Convention. What a joy it is to see this sacred space filled with the vibrant spirit of our church community and the presence of dear friends who have joined us for this divine assembly.

This convention is more than a gathering; it is a celebration of our shared journey, a testament to the strength of our unity, and a reaffirmation of our commitment to the principles that bind us together as one family in Christ.

To our longtime members, your steadfast presence is the bedrock on which our church stands. To our guests and visitors, your arrival enriches our fellowship, and we extend a warm welcome to each of you. May you feel the embrace of our church family.

As we convene for this convention, let us be mindful of the purpose that unites us—the worship of our Lord, the deepening of our faith, and the collective pursuit of living out the teachings of Christ in our lives.

Over the course of this convention, we are blessed to partake in moments of worship, engage in insightful discussions, and build connections that strengthen the fabric of our faith community. The schedule is crafted with care, with each session designed to inspire, educate, and deepen our spiritual bonds.

Before we embark on this enriching journey, let the spirit of anticipation fill our hearts. Anticipation for the wisdom we will gain, the connections we will forge, and the divine presence that will guide our collective endeavors.

In the spirit of inclusivity, let me emphasize that this convention is a space for everyone. Whether you are a seasoned member or a first-time visitor, your voice, your perspective, and your presence are valued and welcomed.

In closing, thank you for being part of this sacred assembly. May the love of Christ permeate every session, every conversation, and every interaction during this convention. May our time together be blessed, our spirits uplifted, and our faith strengthened.

To the journey ahead, the connections we’ll make, and the divine moments that await us, welcome to the [Year] [Church Name] Church Convention. May it be a gathering that leaves an indelible mark on our hearts and our faith. Amen.

18. Greeting for a Graduation Ceremony

Dear Graduates, Families, Faculty, and Honored Guests,

With immense joy and pride, we welcome you to the [Year] Graduation Ceremony—a momentous occasion that marks the culmination of hard work, perseverance, and achievement. Today, we gather not just as a community but as witnesses to the remarkable journey of our graduating class.

To the graduates before us, your accomplishments shine as beacons of dedication and determination. Each one of you has reached this pivotal milestone through unwavering commitment, late-night study sessions, and a passion for knowledge that lights the path to success.

To the families who have supported, encouraged, and celebrated alongside our graduates, we extend a warm welcome. Your steadfast love and guidance have been the pillars on which these young minds have grown and flourished.

We also express our heartfelt appreciation to our dedicated faculty and staff. Your tireless efforts, mentorship, and commitment to nurturing these students have played a crucial role in their academic and personal development.

As we stand on the threshold of this graduation ceremony, let us collectively bask in the sense of accomplishment that permeates the air. Today is a testament to the strength of intellect, the power of perseverance, and the endless possibilities that lie ahead.

Throughout the ceremony, we will celebrate not only academic achievements but also the growth of character, the bonds of friendship formed, and the transformative journey that has shaped these graduates into the remarkable individuals they are today.

Before we proceed, let the excitement for the future fill our hearts. Each graduate carries within them the potential to make a lasting impact on the world, and we eagerly anticipate the contributions they will make to society.

In closing, thank you for joining us in celebrating the achievements of our graduates. May this graduation ceremony be a poignant reminder of the power of education, the strength of community, and the boundless potential that resides within each graduate.

To the Class of [Year], may your futures be bright, your endeavors be fulfilling, and your journey ahead be marked by continued success and meaningful experiences. Congratulations!

introduction speech before holy mass

19. Introduction for a Missionary or Outreach Program

Dear [Church Name] Community and Esteemed Guests,

A warm and purposeful welcome to all as we gather with hearts full of compassion and a shared commitment to make a positive impact on the world around us. Today marks the commencement of a transformative journey—a Missionary and Outreach Program that extends the embrace of our faith beyond the walls of our church and into the broader community.

In the spirit of our shared mission, we come together not merely as individuals but as ambassadors of love, compassion, and service. Today’s program is an embodiment of our commitment to fulfilling the teachings of Christ—to love our neighbors as ourselves.

To our dedicated missionaries, both seasoned and newly inspired, thank you for answering the call to serve. Your presence is a testament to the power of individuals coming together for a higher purpose. To our guests and community members, your participation enriches our collective efforts, and we extend a warm welcome.

Throughout this Missionary and Outreach Program, we embark on a journey of service, empathy, and community building. From local initiatives that uplift our neighbors to broader outreach efforts that touch lives beyond our immediate vicinity, each endeavor is a step toward creating positive change.

As we stand united in purpose, let this program be a beacon of unity—a reminder that, as a faith community, our impact transcends the confines of our church. Together, we can be a source of hope, comfort, and transformation in the lives of those we encounter.

Before we dive into the various initiatives, let the anticipation for the impact we can collectively make fill our hearts. Whether through acts of kindness, support for those in need, or fostering connections with our neighbors, our efforts, big or small, contribute to a tapestry of positive change.

In closing, thank you for joining us in this noble undertaking. May this Missionary and Outreach Program be a catalyst for transformation—not only in the lives of those we serve but also in our own hearts as we learn, grow, and deepen our understanding of the profound impact we can make as a community of believers.

To a journey of service, compassion, and love—may it be as enriching for us as it is for those we aim to uplift. Let us embark on this mission together. Amen.

20. Acknowledgment of Church Elders and Leaders

As we stand within the hallowed walls of our beloved church, let us take a moment to acknowledge and honor those whose wisdom, guidance, and unwavering commitment have been the cornerstone of our faith community—the esteemed elders and leaders of [Church Name].

To our revered elders, your wisdom is a beacon that has illuminated the path of our church for years. Through the ebb and flow of time, your insights have been a source of strength, your counsel a guiding light, and your unwavering dedication an inspiration to us all.

To our leaders, both present and past, your visionary leadership has steered our church through challenges and triumphs alike. Your commitment to fostering a community of love, understanding, and faith has shaped the very fabric of [Church Name].

To our current leaders who carry the mantle, we extend a warm welcome and our heartfelt gratitude. Your selfless service, tireless efforts, and dedication to the well-being of our church family are the pillars upon which our faith community stands tall.

As we collectively acknowledge the elders and leaders in our midst, let our hearts be filled with gratitude for the countless hours, prayers, and heartfelt endeavors they have invested in nurturing our spiritual home.

Before we proceed, let us reflect on the indelible mark left by these leaders and elders. Their legacy is not merely etched in the annals of our church history but lives on in the lives they’ve touched and the foundation they’ve laid for generations to come.

In this acknowledgment, let us also recognize the unity that binds us. Our elders and leaders have fostered an environment where diverse voices are heard, where love prevails, and where our collective faith is a guiding force.

In closing, thank you, dear elders and leaders, for your enduring commitment, your profound influence, and the love you have showered upon our church family. May your journey continue to be blessed, and may your legacy be a source of inspiration for all who walk the path of faith with [Church Name].

To the leaders who have shaped our past, guide our present, and pave the way for our future—we honor you with deep gratitude and love. Amen.

introduction speech before holy mass

21. Opening Welcome for a Thanksgiving Service

Dear [Church Name] Family and Cherished Guests,

With hearts full of gratitude and a spirit of thanksgiving, we welcome each of you to this special gathering—the [Year] Thanksgiving Service. As we gather in this sacred space, let us come together with open hearts, reflecting on the countless blessings that grace our lives.

Today, we stand united in the warmth of gratitude—a gratitude that extends beyond the confines of our church to encompass the abundant blessings that weave through the tapestry of our lives. We acknowledge the divine providence that sustains us, the love that surrounds us, and the moments of joy that fill our days.

To our dear [Church Name] family, both longtime members and those who are joining us for the first time, we extend a warm welcome. Your presence adds a special grace to our thanksgiving celebration, and we are grateful to share this moment of reflection and praise with each of you.

Thanksgiving is more than a tradition; it is a sacred act of acknowledging the goodness that flows into our lives. It is a moment to bow our heads in humility, lift our voices in praise, and express gratitude for the bountiful blessings that enrich our journey.

As we embark on this thanksgiving service, let us do so with a sense of unity. Our individual expressions of gratitude, when woven together, create a beautiful chorus that resonates through the halls of our church—a chorus that acknowledges the goodness of our Creator.

Before we proceed further, let the anticipation for moments of reflection, praise, and communal thanksgiving fill our hearts. Today’s service is an invitation to pause, appreciate, and offer our gratitude as one church family.

In closing, thank you for being part of this Thanksgiving Service. May the moments we share today be filled with the spirit of thanksgiving, the joy of community, and the awareness of the blessings that surround us.

To a service of gratitude, unity, and praise—may it be a source of inspiration and a reminder of the abundant goodness that graces our lives. Amen.

22. Warm Greetings for a Church Picnic or BBQ

Dear [Church Name] Family and Friends,

As the sun smiles upon us and the laughter of fellowship fills the air, a joyous welcome to the [Year] Church Picnic and BBQ! Today, we come together not only as a congregation but as an extended family, ready to savor the flavors of friendship, community, and, of course, some delicious barbecue.

In the spirit of togetherness, we gather beneath the open sky to celebrate the warmth of friendship and the bonds that make our church community special. Each smile, each shared moment, adds a brushstroke to the canvas of our shared journey.

To our long-time members, new faces, and guests who have joined us for this delightful occasion, welcome! Your presence adds the perfect seasoning to our gathering, and we are thrilled to share this day of relaxation and joy with each and every one of you.

Today is not just about sizzling grills and delectable dishes; it’s about building connections, forging new friendships, and creating memories that will linger in our hearts long after the barbecue flames have flickered away. From games to good conversations, let today be a celebration of life, love, and laughter.

As the aroma of barbecue wafts through the air and the sound of laughter echoes, let us revel in the simple joy of being together. Our church picnic is a celebration of the vibrant tapestry of our community, where each one of you is a vital thread that contributes to the beautiful mosaic of [Church Name].

Before we fire up the grills and dive into the festivities, let the anticipation for fun, fellowship, and mouthwatering treats fill our hearts. Today is a day to unwind, connect, and relish the simple pleasures of life.

In closing, thank you for being part of this joyous occasion. May the laughter be contagious, the conversations be heartwarming, and the food be as delightful as the company. Let’s savor this day of camaraderie, grateful for the gift of community that makes our church truly special.

To good food, great company, and the blessings of fellowship—welcome to the [Year] Church Picnic and BBQ! Let the festivities begin! Amen.

23. Welcome Speech for a Confirmation Service

Dear [Church Name] Congregation and Honored Guests,

With hearts brimming with joy and a spirit of anticipation, we extend a warm welcome to each of you on this momentous occasion—the [Year] Confirmation Service. Today, we come together to witness a sacred journey, to celebrate the growth of faith, and to welcome a new chapter in the lives of our confirmands.

The Confirmation Service is more than a ritual; it is a profound declaration of faith, a personal commitment to walk the path of discipleship, and a celebration of the Holy Spirit’s transformative work within our young members.

To the families and friends who have gathered to support and celebrate our confirmands, we extend a warm welcome. Your presence adds a special grace to this service, and we are grateful to share this moment with you.

Confirmation is a sacred milestone, a spiritual journey that reflects a deepening commitment to Christ and His teachings. Today, we witness the affirmation of faith by our confirmands—a declaration that echoes through the ages and resonates within the walls of our church.

As we stand on the threshold of this Confirmation Service, let us acknowledge the spiritual growth of our confirmands. Through moments of study, reflection, and prayer, they have embraced the teachings of Christ and nurtured a personal relationship with the divine.

Before we proceed further, let the anticipation for blessings, guidance, and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit fill our hearts. Today is a day of celebration, a day when we affirm the presence of God in the lives of our confirmands and embrace the rich tapestry of faith that binds us together.

In closing, thank you for being part of this sacred Confirmation Service. May the vows spoken, the prayers offered, and the laying on of hands be a source of inspiration and spiritual fortitude for our confirmands as they continue their journey of faith.

To the confirmands, may the Holy Spirit guide your steps, illuminate your path, and fill your hearts with the enduring love of Christ. Welcome to this moment of consecration and celebration. Amen.

24. Introduction for a Special Children’s Program

Dear Families, Children, and Beloved Guests,

A burst of excitement and a kaleidoscope of joy fill the air as we gather today for a truly special occasion—the [Year] Children’s Program at [Church Name]. It is with immense delight that we welcome each one of you to a celebration of innocence, creativity, and the boundless wonder that resides in the hearts of our little ones.

Today, our focus turns to the smallest members of our community—our precious children. Their laughter, curiosity, and untamed imaginations are a testament to the pure, unbridled spirit that graces our congregation.

To the families, friends, and guests who join us in this celebration, we extend a heartfelt welcome. Your presence adds a special warmth to this gathering, and we are grateful to share this delightful moment with each and every one of you.

The Children’s Program is not just an event; it is a journey into a world of wonder, discovery, and the simple joys of childhood. Through delightful performances, heartfelt presentations, and creative expressions, our children will showcase the beauty of their hearts and minds.

As we embark on this enchanting journey, let us do so with a sense of wonder. Today is a celebration of the innocence that dwells in the hearts of our children—a reminder that within every giggle, every story, and every song, there exists a universe of possibility and magic.

Before the program unfolds, let the anticipation for delightful moments, heartfelt expressions, and the sheer exuberance of our children fill our hearts. Today, we step into a world where imagination knows no bounds, and every child’s voice is a melody of hope.

In closing, thank you for being part of this special Children’s Program. May the giggles be contagious, the smiles be infectious, and the moments we share today be etched in our hearts as cherished memories.

To the little stars who grace our stage today, may your spirits shine brightly, and may this Children’s Program be a celebration of the beautiful tapestry of our church family. Welcome to a day of joy, laughter, and the magic of childhood. Amen.

introduction speech before holy mass

25. Greetings for a Church Fundraising Event

Dear [Church Name] Family and Generous Supporters,

With hearts full of gratitude and a spirit of shared purpose, we extend a warm welcome to each of you at our [Year] Church Fundraising Event. Today, we come together not only as a congregation but as a community united in the noble cause of supporting and uplifting the work of our church.

As we gather for this special fundraising event, we acknowledge the generosity that flows from the hearts of our church family and friends. Your willingness to contribute and support the mission of our church is a testament to the strength of our community.

To our dedicated church members, supporters, and those who have joined us for the first time, welcome. Your presence adds a special vibrancy to this occasion, and we are grateful for your commitment to the well-being and growth of our church.

Today’s event is more than a fundraiser; it is a celebration of our shared values, a testament to our collective commitment to the mission of our church, and an opportunity to sow seeds of generosity that will bear fruits in the lives touched by our outreach and ministry.

In the spirit of community, let us come together with open hearts, recognizing that every contribution, whether big or small, plays a vital role in the continued success and impact of our church’s initiatives.

Before we delve into the festivities of the event, let the anticipation for the impact we can collectively make fill our hearts. Each donation, each act of generosity, contributes to the realization of our shared vision and mission.

In closing, thank you for being part of this important fundraising event. May the spirit of generosity that dwells within our community continue to flourish, and may the fruits of our collective efforts be a source of blessings for many.

To a day of shared purpose, unity, and the joy of giving—welcome to the [Year] Church Fundraising Event. Let us make a difference together! Amen.

26. Welcome Address for a Seasonal Event (Easter)

Dear [Church Name] Family and Respected Guests,

With hearts overflowing with the joy of resurrection and the promise of new beginnings, we extend a warm and heartfelt welcome to each one of you on this glorious Easter morning. Today, as we gather in the embrace of our faith community, we celebrate the central tenet of Christianity—the resurrection of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

On this sacred day, we stand united in the recognition of the profound significance of the resurrection. Easter is not merely a date on the calendar; it is a testament to the triumph of light over darkness, hope over despair, and life over death. It is a day that echoes through the corridors of history, proclaiming the victory of love and redemption.

To our beloved church family and to those joining us for this Easter celebration, welcome. Your presence adds a special radiance to this momentous occasion, and we are grateful for the shared joy, fellowship, and reverence that permeates our gathering.

Easter is a day of rejoicing, a day when we come together to commemorate the Resurrection and to bask in the transformative power of Christ’s love. Today’s celebration is not just a ritual; it is an affirmation of our shared faith, a renewal of hope, and an invitation to embrace the boundless grace of God.

As we enter into this Easter service, let us do so with hearts open to the renewal that this day symbolizes. May the message of resurrection resonate within us, inspiring a renewed commitment to love, compassion, and the teachings of Christ.

Before we proceed further, let the anticipation for spiritual rejoicing, shared worship, and the presence of the risen Christ fill our hearts. Today is a day of jubilation, a day when we rejoice not only in the historical event but also in the living presence of Christ in our lives.

In closing, thank you for being part of this momentous Easter celebration. May the joy of the resurrection infuse our hearts with hope, our spirits with courage, and our lives with the transformative power of God’s love.

To a day of resurrection joy, communal worship, and the everlasting grace of our risen Lord—welcome to this Easter service at [Church Name]. May the blessings of Easter be abundant for each one of you. Amen.

27. Warm Welcome for a Volunteer Appreciation Event

Dear Esteemed Volunteers and Honored Guests,

With hearts brimming with gratitude and a deep sense of appreciation, we extend the warmest of welcomes to each of you at our [Year] Volunteer Appreciation Event. Today, we come together not merely as an organization but as a family, bound by the common thread of selfless service and a shared commitment to making a positive impact on our community.

In this moment, we pause to acknowledge and celebrate the heartbeat of our organization—the dedicated volunteers who, through their selfless contributions, have woven a tapestry of compassion, support, and positive change.

To our cherished volunteers, both longstanding members and those who have recently joined our ranks, welcome. Your unwavering dedication has been the cornerstone of our collective success, and we are profoundly grateful for the time, talent, and heart you invest in our shared mission.

Today’s event is not just a token of appreciation; it is a celebration of the remarkable individuals who embody the spirit of service. Through heartfelt expressions, shared moments, and the joy of camaraderie, we aim to convey our deep gratitude for the positive impact you have made on the lives of those we serve.

In the spirit of community, let us come together with open hearts to celebrate not only the individual contributions but also the collective strength that arises when individuals unite with a shared vision of making a difference.

Before the festivities unfold, let the anticipation for well-deserved recognition, heartfelt expressions of gratitude, and the joy of shared accomplishments fill our hearts. Today is a day to shine a spotlight on the incredible work our volunteers have accomplished.

In closing, thank you for being the backbone of our organization, the driving force behind positive change, and the embodiment of the values we hold dear. May this Volunteer Appreciation Event be a reflection of the deep respect and gratitude we have for each of you.

To a day of heartfelt appreciation, shared laughter, and the joy of knowing that your efforts have made a meaningful difference—welcome to the [Year] Volunteer Appreciation Event. Your commitment is the cornerstone of our success, and for that, we are truly grateful. Amen.

introduction speech before holy mass

28. Acknowledgment of Long-time Church Members

With hearts filled with reverence and gratitude, we gather today to pay tribute to the steadfast pillars of our faith community—our long-time church members. As we stand on the shoulders of their enduring commitment, we extend a warm acknowledgment to those who have been the bedrock of our congregation.

In this sacred moment, we pause to acknowledge and celebrate the individuals who have walked alongside us, offering their unwavering dedication and steadfast commitment to the journey of faith. These long-time members are the living embodiment of the spirit that breathes life into our church.

To our cherished long-time members, welcome. Your presence is a testament to the depth of commitment and the enduring love that binds us as a church family. Your legacy is woven into the fabric of our history, and we are profoundly grateful for the rich tapestry of faith you have helped create.

Today is not merely a recognition; it is a celebration of the countless contributions, sacrifices, and moments of grace that our long-time members have shared with our church community. Through their leadership, kindness, and unwavering support, they have left an indelible mark on the journey of our congregation.

In the spirit of unity, let us come together with open hearts to celebrate the shared journey that has brought us to this moment. The stories, the wisdom, and the enduring faith of our long-time members are threads that weave us into a community bound by the common purpose of worship and service.

Before we proceed further, let the anticipation for moments of reflection, gratitude, and shared memories fill our hearts. Today is a day to honor the legacy of our long-time members and to express our heartfelt appreciation for the impact they have made on our church family.

In closing, thank you, dear long-time members, for being the cornerstone of our church. Your legacy is not only the years you have spent with us but the lives you have touched and the spiritual foundation you have helped establish. May this acknowledgment be a small token of the deep gratitude we hold for each of you.

To a day of remembrance, celebration, and the enduring legacy of our long-time members—welcome to this special gathering. May the bonds of our faith community continue to strengthen through the wisdom and love you bring to our midst. Amen.

29. Closing Remarks for a Church Event or Service

Dear [Church Name] Family and Honored Guests,

As we draw the curtains on this sacred gathering, I am compelled to express heartfelt gratitude and offer closing remarks that reflect the spirit of our time together.

First and foremost, I extend my deepest gratitude to each one of you for gracing us with your presence today. Your participation has added a special depth and richness to our collective worship and fellowship.

As we look back on the moments we’ve shared, let us carry with us the essence of the messages, the warmth of communal worship, and the connections forged during our time together. In these moments, we have drawn closer to the divine and to one another.

A heartfelt thank you to all who have contributed—whether through words of wisdom, musical offerings, prayers, or acts of service. Your contributions have been the threads that have woven the tapestry of our shared experience.

As we step back into the rhythm of our daily lives, let the inspiration and blessings we’ve received today accompany us. May the messages of faith, hope, and love resonate in our hearts, guiding our steps in the week ahead.

Our time together does not end with the closing of this service. Let us carry the spirit of fellowship beyond these walls, supporting and uplifting one another in the journey of life.

Before we part ways, let us bow our heads in prayer. Heavenly Father, we thank you for the precious moments we’ve shared today. May the grace and peace of Your presence abide with us as we go forth from this sacred place. Grant us strength, wisdom, and a heart filled with love to navigate the days ahead. In Your holy name, we pray. Amen.

May the Lord bless you and keep you; may the Lord make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you; may the Lord turn His face toward you and give you peace. Amen.

As we conclude this gathering, may the love of Christ bind us together, and may the spirit of unity and grace guide our paths until we meet again. Thank you, and go in peace.

introduction speech before holy mass

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Church welcome speech sample

A short welcome speech for church visitors

Posted by:  Susan Dugdale  | Last modified: 08-12-2023

Our church welcome speech sample below covers the 3 essential elements of a genuinely welcoming speech for the visitors or newcomers in your congregation.

The speaker has:

  • acknowledged the visitors/newcomers
  • given them an introduction to the core points of the congregation's beliefs and practice
  • and warmly invited them to connect and participate in church life.

The speech is sincere, brief and will be easily understood by those who hear it.

Image - Drawing by Amy Burton - 5 singers with their arms lifted in worship.

All the possibly tricky issues are covered

Although it might appear simple the speech covers a number of potentially complex issues succinctly.

  • freely offering a warm welcome regardless of the visitor's motivation. That is "just looking" , or seriously considering the church as fitting their needs.
  • addressing unspoken questions the newcomer may have through giving a clear statement about what's at the heart of the church's belief and practice. The visitor does not have to guess. If they're debating whether to join the congregation, they have been given something solid to base their decision-making process on.
  • giving an invitation to discuss issues personally. For example: "...so if you ever feel like just another number, we're doing something wrong, and I give you permission to tell me about it." The implication of that invitation is powerful. The message it gives is: "You are valuable. I care, we care, enough about you to give you time. I am not above or better than you. You are free to tell me where I have gone wrong in reaching you."
  • providing clear means of creating a connection. E.g. "Fill out one of our connect cards" and by completing a prayer request.
  • having a welcoming pack to give to visitors. It's something tangible they can take away that contains the church's essential details and contacts. (In this speech it's a "bulletin" .)
  • looking into the future, anticipating what's ahead if the invitation to join is accepted
  • honoring the guest: "Allow us to serve you."

You're most welcome to take, shape and change the speech to fit your needs.

Image - 4 variations of a drawing by Amy Burton of 5 singers with their arms lifted in praise.

Short church welcome speech sample

"I want to take a moment to extend a very warm welcome to everyone who's visiting us for the first time this morning.

Whether you're just having a look, or are searching out for a place to worship, we're sincerely delighted to have you here.

To give you some idea of what we're all about, I'll quickly sketch some of our foundational beliefs.

Our vision statement says this: "Getting and growing people in relationship with Jesus".

So firstly, we're all about Jesus Christ.

We believe that Jesus was who he said he was, the Son of God who came and died for our sins.

So, if this is your first time in church, we hope that you get to know Him as we do, because He's truly what life is all about for us!

introduction speech before holy mass

Secondly, we're all about people.

Every person who walks through our doors is important to us. So, if you ever feel like just another number, we're doing something wrong and I give you permission to tell me about it.

As a group of God's people we care about you and your family. We're here not only to feed you spiritually, but to help in any way we can. We love doing it and it's why we exist!

Image: quotation from church welcome speech: We hope to cultivate and grow meaningful and positive relationships between each other.

Thirdly, we're all about relationships.

We hope to cultivate and grow meaningful and positive relationships between each other, and also go further by getting, and growing, in relationship with God.

Christianity is all about a Person, and less about a set of rules. That means that we exist to be in a relationship with Someone. To us that Someone is Jesus. We are not here merely to obey a religion.

That's us in a nutshell!

I want to encourage you to fill out one of our connect cards that you'll find in the bulletin you got when you came in. Just write your name and e-mail or phone number on there and give it back to us.

We'd love to stay in touch with you and to let you know about some exciting upcoming events we're planning for the next few months.

Also, if you've got a specific prayer request, please find the courage to write it down on that same piece of paper (there's a space for it), and put it in the prayer box at the back of this room when you leave.

We'd love to pray for you, but if you don't ask us, there's nothing for us to pray for. So, I encourage you to take hold of this opportunity and allow us the honor of serving you in this way.

Enjoy the rest of your worship time with us, and God bless you!"

About this welcome speech for church

This example of a short church welcome speech was written by Leon Potgieter, an actively committed Christian. At the time he gave it to me to share he, like me, owned and ran a website offering public speaking help.

Other useful resources

Here's three more valuable resources to help with church-centered communications: 

  • If you're here looking for inspiration because you've been asked to be a church greeter , to offer words of welcome to visitors do check this link. Chris Walker from www.evangelismcoach.org has neatly summarized 10 practices to welcome church visitors.
  • For inspiration and help with graphics visit ministrydesigns.media . They have literally thousands to choose from, and many of them are free.
  • Barna Group - respected providers of specialist resources to help leaders of Christian churches, humanitarian business and/or non-profit organizations understand what they need to do.          

Related pages of interest:

  • Read an example of a welcome speech for a non-church event.
  • Discover the importance of practice. Find out how to rehearse for maximum impact
  • Banish nerves with breathing exercises
  • Return to top of our church welcome speech sample

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This article is the second in a series the Denver Catholic staff created to help the faithful return to Mass in a deeper way than ever before after an extended absence from it due to the coronavirus pandemic. Click the links below to read the other parts.

Part 1: Introduction Part 3: Liturgy of the Word Part 4: Liturgy of the Eucharist Part 5: The Concluding Rites

The pews of our churches are starting to fill up once again. After a somber Lent without Masses, the doors of churches are opening back up for the faithful to come and participate in the Sacred Liturgy.

Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic and the closure of our parishes, Mass was likely a part of our weekly routine. Every weekend, we would gather at the foot of the altar as one body in Christ, offering our prayers and receiving the fullness of Christ in the Eucharist. This routine of attending Mass each week is a good and beautiful part of the Christian faith — “the source and summit,” as it were.

However, the danger of routines is that they can begin to lose their staying power and meaning over time. How many of us attend Mass each week simply because we have to and not because we actually want to experience it in its fullness? Have we lost touch with the richness of the liturgy and how every piece of it is meant to draw us ever closer to He who laid down his life in love for us? If you answered yes to either of these questions, then the reopening of Masses presents an opportunity to enter into it deeper than ever before.

The Roman Missal divides the Mass into four main parts. Let’s take a look at some of the rich meanings and symbolisms of the Introductory Rites and how our participation in the Mass begins even before the bell rings.

Holy Water dip

From the moment we set foot inside our parishes, Christ is inviting us to a profound and intimate communion with him in the Mass. As we enter the sanctuary of our parish, it’s instinctual to dip our fingers in the Holy Water font and bless ourselves with the Sign of the Cross. Have you stopped to consider why we do this?

The obvious answer is it serves as a reminder of our own baptism, which is true. As scripture shows us time and time again, water is an important symbol in the life of the Church. The Catechism of the Catholic Church states: “The symbolism of water signifies the Holy Spirit’s action in Baptism, since after the invocation of the Holy Spirit it becomes the efficacious sacramental sign of new birth: just as the gestation of our first birth took place in water, so the water of Baptism truly signifies that our birth into the divine life is given to us in the Holy Spirit. As ‘by one Spirit we were all baptized,’ so we are also ‘made to drink of one Spirit.’ Thus the Spirit is also personally the living water welling up from Christ crucified as its source and welling up in us to eternal life” (CCC 694).

But there’s an even deeper meaning to the blessing with Holy Water that is found when looking back at the early Church. Before entering a sacred space, it was common practice for worshippers to “cleanse” themselves with water. While this served a functional purpose of removing dirt physically from one’s body, it also symbolized the removal of the spiritual grime that builds up on the soul. As St. Clement of Alexandria once wrote: “The best bath, then, is what rubs off the pollution of the soul, and is spiritual. Of which prophecy speaks expressly: ‘The Lord will wash away the filth of the sons and daughters of Israel, and will purge the blood from the midst of them.’”

With this ritual cleansing, we are now ready to enter into the sacred feast that awaits.

Genuflection + Silence

introduction speech before holy mass

As we make our way to our seat in the pew, the church is silent. Before we sit, again, it is instinctual to genuflect, or kneel, towards the tabernacle in a gesture of reverence for Christ. Historically, the act of genuflection was reserved for rulers and kings as a sign of submission and respect. In the same way, we Catholics genuflect before the true “king of kings” when we enter the church to honor he who is present in the Blessed Sacrament.

The silence of the Church before Mass begins should be a chance for us to simply dwell with the Lord. In the silence, we can listen more intently for the Lord’s voice and what he might be asking us to offer up in the sacrifice of the Mass. It is an opportunity to quiet our hearts, take captive any wandering thoughts, still our worries and anxieties, and just simply exist in the presence of the Most Holy.

Entrance Procession

The bell rings. Everybody stands. The music begins and a procession enters the church, signifying the beginning of Mass. In a typical Sunday Mass, the procession tends to follow this general order: Altar servers holding the processional Cross (Crucifix), altar servers holding candles, the deacon holding the Gospel, followed by the priest. While this order may seem random, it’s by design.

The processional Cross leads the procession, proclaiming the crucified Christ as the reason for gathering. The candles, sometimes made of beeswax and wicks aflame, signify Christ as the light of the world; the wax and flame also symbolize the dual nature of Christ’s existence as both human and divine. The deacon carrying the Gospels represents both the Words of Christ and the Word made flesh in Christ. Lastly, Christ himself is represented in the priest, who acts in the person of Christ as he celebrates the Sacred Liturgy.

introduction speech before holy mass

As the precession makes its way through the Body of Christ in the gathered faithful and reaches the altar, they stop to bow. Then, the deacon and priest both kiss the altar as an expression of veneration for the holy sacrifice that is about to take place there. The altar itself represents Christ, “the stone that the builders rejected that becomes the Cornerstone” (Psalm 118). If incense is used, it is meant to symbolize the prayers and plights of all the faithful gathered rising up like smoke to our Father in Heaven (Psalm 141:2 and Rev 8:4).

Sign of the Cross

Every Mass begins the same way: the priest says the words, “In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit…,” and we mark ourselves with the Sign of the Cross.   The Sign of the Cross is a way to acknowledge our reason for being at Mass in the first place: to worship and give thanks to the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. More importantly though, it is a mark of our belonging to the Lord.

The Sign of the Cross dates back to the first century of Christianity. Marking ourselves with the Sign of the Cross at the start of Mass is also a way to remind ourselves that the Mass is first and foremost a prayer. In a very real and beautiful way, in marking ourselves, we are uniting our prayers with those of the early Christians as well as the millions of other Christians around the world who are celebrating Mass at exactly the same time.

Following the sign, the priest echoes the words of St. Paul, written in the second book of Corinthians: “The grace of Our Lord Jesus Christ, and the Love of God, and the Communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all.” The most common greeting is “The Lord be with you.” As we respond with the words, “And with your spirit,” we recognize the gift of the spirit the priest received at his ordination.

Penitential Act

It is a critical tenet of the Christian faith to acknowledge one’s own sinfulness and imperfection. That’s precisely why Christ came; to reconcile humanity with the God who created them. At Mass, this acknowledgment comes most predominantly during the Penitential Act. As the priest implores us to “call to mind our sins so as to prepare to celebrate [the] sacred mysteries,” we are asked to have a penitential disposition and a purified heart before we engage in the Sacred Liturgy.

The priest then leads the congregation in a brief declaration, called the Confiteor in Latin, as he begins, “I confess, to almighty God, and to you my brothers and sisters, that I have greatly sinned…” In echoing these words, the faithful are declaring their own sinfulness and asking for God’s mercy. In striking our chests three times as we say the words, “through my fault, through my fault, through my most grievous fault,” we imitate an ancient symbol of contrition, described in Sacred Scripture as the “beating of the breast” on several occasions.

Following this declaration, the faithful sometimes recite the Kyrie Eleison , which is Greek for “Lord, have mercy.” Rather than begging for God’s mercy, these words should be approached as a reverent prayer to the Lord in thanksgiving for his mercy and grace. Though we don’t deserve it, we acknowledge his endless love for us as we respond to the words of the priest or deacon, “Lord, have mercy. Christ, have mercy.” Through the Penitential Act, we are thus able to partake of the Eucharistic celebration with a pure heart; it should be noted, however, that if one is knowingly in a state of mortal sin at Mass, the sacrament of reconciliation is necessary in order to receive the Eucharist.

After the Kyrie Eleison , the faithful lift their voices in the Gloria. The Gloria is one of the oldest and most ancient parts of the liturgy, dating back to the 100s. The opening words of the Gloria, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth, peace to people of good will…” echo the words of the angels to the shepherds on the night Jesus was born.

In a very real way, by singing the Gloria, we are uniting our voices with that of the angels of heaven in a triumphant chorus of praise to the Lord. It is a chorus that transcends the ages and bespeaks the spiritual and metaphysical realities that clash with the earthly in the Holy Mass. It is a song that has been, is and will be sung for all eternity.

Finally, before entering the Liturgy of the Word, the priest leads the congregation in a prayer called the Collect. This prayer is intended to “collect” the prayers of the faithful and unite them with the sacred mysteries that occur during the Mass. As the General Instruction of the Roman Missal states: “The Priest pronounces the prayer usually called the ‘Collect’ and through which the character of the celebration finds expression.”

With our souls now cleansed, our minds now quiet and our hearts now purified and open to the Lord, we are ready to engage in the Holy Mass and receive Jesus in the Eucharist.

Aaron Lambert

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Religious Welcome Speeches -  Invite and Encourage

Religious welcome speeches and words of wisdom, that encourage and make your congregants and visiting guests feel welcome, are an incredible introduction to set the tone for a meaningful and positive opportunity for fellowship and worship.

religious welcome speeches

A church welcome speech need not to be very long - you need to create an atmosphere that is warm, welcoming and conducive to fellowship shared.

Our free church welcome speech is a great starting point. Religious expression tends to be quite personal - so go ahead...use it as a guideline, add a bit or change it to suit your needs. This is one speech that you can't get wrong - speak from your heart, be sincere and feel His Presence surround you.

Dear Friends, Guests, Brothers and Sisters,

May I take this opportunity to welcome you all here today on behalf of [insert name of place of worship] . 

It is wonderful, as always, to see all the familiar faces of our friends and all the special members of our congregation. I know that you all join me this morning in extending a heartfelt and sincere welcome to all our new members and any visitors who may be joining us today. Welcome one and all.

May this Ministry and its congregation offer you the opportunity to grow spiritually. We trust that the message today will uplift and encourage you as we share together in fellowship. May your burdens be lifted, may you feel comforted and as the lord reveals His plan and purpose in your lives, may you be inspired and encouraged to become active and involved in one of the many ministries that this body has to offer.

Be encouraged with God's Word:  John 15:5

"I am the Vine, you are the branches. If a man remains in Me and I in him, he will bear much fruit"

God bless you and keep you - may His light continue to shine upon you.

Religious welcome speeches are like welcome back to school speeches and welcome to the family speech - speak from your heart, emphasize your message with positive body language and smile so that a twinkle reaches your eyes too!

introduction speech before holy mass

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The Introductory Rites

Home » Parishes » Formation » Lifelong Faith Formation » Parts of the Mass » The Introductory Rites

The Introductory Rites

The Introductory Rites "...have the character of a beginning, an introduction, and a preparation. Their purpose is to ensure that the faithful, who come together as one, establish communion and dispose themselves properly to listen to the Word of God and to celebrate the Eucharist worthily."

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Introduction

The most holy sacrifice of the Mass is a single act of worship, which begins with the introductory rites: the Entrance, the Greeting, the Penitential Act, the Gloria, and the Collect. The General Instruction of the Roman Missal teaches that these “have the character of a beginning, an introduction, and a preparation.” Each aspect guides the faithful more deeply into the celebration of the Paschal Banquet. We bring ourselves physically before God, we direct our minds to the things of God, we express sorrow for sins and implore God’s mercy, and we gather our prayers as a community of faith.

Because of its position and duration, it may be relatively easy to miss the significance of the Introductory Rites. Simple as they may seem these initial acts are not so: they are a calling together of the entire Body of Christ, they are the beginning of one great hymn of praise and thanksgiving, sung together by the local church, the church around the globe, and the angels and saints in heaven!

Take some time before Mass to reflect on the week past, identifying both blessings and sins to bring before the altar. Consider each of the different parts of the introductory rites and their significance to the worshipping community: the entrance , to open the prayerful celebration of the Mass; the greeting and sign of the cross among priest and gathered community, indicating God's presence in their midst; the penitential act , for the calling to mind and forgiving of minor sins; the Gloria , to recognize the greatness of God and our need for him; the collect , a time to "collect" the prayers of the people before the altar.

One family's action plan for Mass with small children Animated "Brother Francis" presentation on the Mass Activities related to the Mass to engage and educate children: "The Mass Box" Resource Another couple's tips on "Bringing Kids to Mass" A selection of prayers around the parts of the Mass A tip from Pope Francis on preparing for Mass A reflection on the introductory rites from Catholic365.com Archbishop Coleridge, Archdiocese of Brisbane, Australia, on the Introductory Rites

Like any good introduction, the introductory rites have an attention-grabbing quality. It is up to each of us, however, to make the most of them. The following resources will help in this regard.

Arrive at Mass Early

One of the most effective ways to celebrate the introductory rites is to be sure that we are present for them. If being on time to Mass is a challenge for your family, consider "telling yourselves" that Mass begins ten minutes earlier than the actual start time.

If you regularly arrive at Mass early or on time, use the time you have in the church to more intentionally prepare to celebrate Mass, even from the first few notes of the entrance hymn! As each part of the introductory rites unfolds, try to engage with its meaning and purpose as summarized above and as indicated by the words of the prayers.

One writer's "9 Practical Tips to Help You Stay Focused at Mass "

Mass with your faith community is certainly one way to “live” the introductory rites of the Mass, and there are other, broader ways to think about living these rites given their significance as a “beginning, an introduction, and a preparation.”

Celebrate the Sacrament of Penance and Reconciliation

The Sacrament of Penance and Reconciliation is a sacrament of healing. As such, it is like the introductory rites in that it brings the Body of Christ – the Church – closer together; it helps heal the “wounds” of the Church. Also like the introductory rites, the Sacrament of Penance and Reconciliation disposes us to live according to God’s ways and to better receive the great graces God has in store for us at Mass. Use our search tool to find an upcoming time to celebrate Reconciliation at a parish near you .

Dispose oneself to the Word of God more fully by reading Scripture at home

Parents with small children can help them receive the Sunday readings more effectively by practicing quiet listening with one or two short passages from Scripture. Practicing quiet listening helps children to appreciate the reverence due to the Bible, a book unique among all others. Parents with older children may wish to have more of a dialogue, perhaps encouraging a child to read. By sharing regularly about how various Scripture passages relate to everyday family life, parents will affirm the enduring relevance of the Bible in the minds of their children. To read the Scripture readings for any day, visit www.usccb.org/bible/ and click on the desired calendar date.

Participate in parish community events

Reinforce the expression of community present in the introductory rites (and Mass, in general) by making that community part of family life during the rest of the week. Check your parish website or bulletin to see what may be happening at the parish Monday through Saturday.

Preparing for June

Catholics from every parish in the Diocese of Manchester are invited to gather for a time of prayer, fellowship, and formation in June of 2020. Together, we will deepen our understanding of the Church's liturgy so that we may be sent forth into the world, glorifying God with our lives.

For more information, visit www.MinistryEnrichmentGathering.org

Video Lesson

Fr. Jason Jalbert, Vicar General, Rector and Pastor of St. Joseph Cathedral, offers a quick take on the Introductory Rites of the Roman Missal.

Disclaimer: The links on this webpage are provided for your reference only. The Diocese of Manchester does not control such websites and is not responsible for their contents. The inclusion of links to non-diocesan websites does not imply any endorsement of the material on these websites or any association with their operators.

For More Information...

Parts of the mass.

10 Welcome To Church Speeches For Your Next Event in 2023

Updated november 10, 2023  |  jayson bradley.

introduction speech before holy mass

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introduction speech before holy mass

2. FLUSTERING

The other side of the rambling coin is the stammering. When you haven’t cemented the opening remarks you want to say, it’s so easy to get stuck in a mental loop. Your brain’s going 1,000 miles a second trying to construct your speech. In the meantime, the stuttering starts and you have a hard time getting back on track.

3. POOR JOKES

Both the person that’s rambling and the one that’s flustered try to ease their stress by cracking wise. Nothing breaks tension like jokes, right? Well, not so fast. Jokes are like pork: Wonderful if properly prepared, but when you start serving them up only half-baked, you have a good chance of turning off everyone.

When your brain is struggling to feed you the next line, it’s not going to do a good job of assessing the quality of a joke. In this situation, it’s easy to throw out a quip that’s incoherent, inappropriate, or awkward.

4. NEGLECTING IMPORTANT INFORMATION

It’s likely that there are important points or directions that need to be communicated during a welcome speech. You might think, “It’s only a couple of items. What are the chances that I’ll forget them?” The chances are higher than you think.

Rules to Follow with These Welcome to Church Speeches

Before we get into the content of a welcome to church speech, here are a couple of rules to remember when you’re giving your address:

1. DON’T READ IT

You’re setting the tone of this gathering, and most of the time you’re trying to make people comfortable. The key to being prepared lies in being able to speak in a way that feels extemporaneous.

You can definitely bring a card with some notes on it, but it’s there as a guide, not a crutch.

2. MAKE EYE CONTACT

Being personable isn’t too difficult. You just want to appear cool, calm, and confident. Preparedness will help you get there. Meeting the gaze of people in the room is going to help sell it. Just don’t stare them down.

3. SPEAK SLOWLY

Talking too fast is almost inevitable when you’re not used to speaking in public. You get up there and the adrenaline starts pumping through you, and you end up speaking three times faster than you intend.

As crazy as it sounds, speak a little more slowly than feels comfortable.

4. BE BRIEF

Polonius speaks the truth in Hamlet when he says, “Brevity is the soul of wit.” Keep your warm welcome tight and concise and everyone will think you did brilliantly!

6 Key Elements of a Good Welcome to Church Speech

Most good welcome to church speeches are going to share some common components. But they might need to be packaged or delivered differently based on the kind of event you’re greeting people for. Here are six things every good welcome to church speech should do:

1. INTRODUCE THE EVENT (AND YOURSELF)

Start by welcoming everyone to the event and introducing yourself. This can be as simple as “Welcome to Redeemer Lutheran Church. My name is Susan.”

2. SET EXPECTATIONS

This is just a brief explanation of what people can expect to happen at the event. This should be as simple as possible. You’re not breaking everything down at an atomic level, you’re just giving a quick synopsis.

3. GIVE IMPORTANT PRACTICAL INFORMATION

Let people know what they may need to know in order to enjoy themselves. This could include things like the location of restrooms, a reminder to turn down cell phones, or the location of refreshments.

4. ACKNOWLEDGE NEWCOMERS

Let visitors know that they’re welcome. It’s amazing how much tension is alleviated in visitors when they’re told, “We know there are some new people here.” This gives them permission to figure stuff out as they go.

You’ll also want to address any methods you use to capture their contact information. A simple, “If you’re new here today, we want to extend to you a special welcome. In the pew in front of you is a contact card, we’d love for you to fill it out and drop it in the offering basket so we can get to know you better.”

5. LET THEM KNOW WHAT’S NEXT

After you’ve welcomed everyone, your job is to smoothly transition to the next thing. That might mean that you’re encouraging them to welcome a speaker or releasing them to get food or refreshments. Whatever it is, make sure that you’re helping to facilitate the next steps.

6. DON’T FORGET TO PRAY

If the situation calls for it, you can also open in prayer. The same general rules apply to public prayers that apply to welcome speeches. Unless you have some experience under your belt, it’s better to over-prepare than it is to wing it.

Welcome to Church Speech Templates

Here are some templates for various welcome speeches that you can use for your next gathering. Feel free to use these as springboards to get your creative juices flowing!

Sunday Morning

Welcome to church speech #1.

Good morning! My name is [NAME] and I’d like to welcome you to [CHURCH NAME]. If this is your first time here, we’d like to thank you for coming and we hope that you’ll be comfortable. We look forward to spending the next [service time period i.e. hour] worshiping with you. You’ll find a contact card in [location], please fill that out—we’d love to get to know you better.

Please remember [include any pertinent information about childcare, cell phone usage, or whatever here].

Please join me in prayer. [Insert prayer*] As the worship team comes forward, join me in singing [song title].

WELCOME TO CHURCH SPEECH #2

Hi! My name is [name] and we’re really glad that you decided to join us this morning. If this is your first time at [church name], we want to let you know how excited we are that you’re here. I hope that our casual environment will help you feel comfortable. I also want to let you know that [include any pertinent information about childcare, cell phone usage, or whatever here]. Lastly, please take a moment and fill out the comment card that can be found [location]. We’d love to get to know a little bit more about you, and how we can serve or pray for you.

Let’s ask God to bless our time together. [Insert prayer*] [Introduce next element]

Graduations

Welcome speech #3.

Good evening. My name is [name] and it is my pleasure to welcome the families, friends, and teachers of our [year] graduating class. It seems like just yesterday that these graduates were preparing for their first years here at [school name], and here we are celebrating their great accomplishments.

We want to thank each and every one of you for the part you have played in helping each of these students get here. Your sacrifice has made their [high school, middle school, college, etc.] career successful. Thank you.

Throughout the program we’ll hear from some of the faculty and a few of the students, pass out diplomas, and send these students on the next part of their journey. [Insert whatever elements you need to include]

Please remember to [insert important information]. And join me as we welcome [next presenter/speaker].

WELCOME SPEECH #4

Families and friends of the [year] graduates of [school name], my name is [name] and the faculty and I would like to welcome you to this wonderful evening. We look forward to remembering some of the fun and inspirational stories from the last [number] years.

This journey would have been impossible without the love, support, and encouragement of each one of you here tonight. So before we even begin, the faculty and students would like to thank you for the important role you played in this evening.

Lastly, we’d like to remind you that [insert important information]. Now, please join me in welcoming [next presenter/speaker].

Social Gatherings

These general speeches are helpful for picnics, potlucks,  welcome-back dinners for students , and other get-togethers

WELCOME SPEECH #5

Hello everyone, I just really want to thank you for coming out. It’s nice to see so many familiar faces. If this is your first time with us, my name is [name] and we [if appropriate insert the name of the church or organization] want to extend the warmest welcome to you. We hope that you can use this time to make some important connections and build some relationships.

A couple things before we get started: [Insert any important information]. When I excuse you, we’ll start by [give directions for the next element]. [Share about any other events that will be happening during the gathering]. [Insert prayer* if appropriate]

WELCOME SPEECH #6

Welcome! If you don’t know me my name is [name] from [organization or church], and we’re really excited that you all were able to come out and join us for [name of gathering]. If you’re new here, we’re glad you’re with us and we’d all love an opportunity to get to know you better.

The reason we’re here today is [reason—it can be as simple as an opportunity to share a meal and enjoy some fellowship]. It’s going to be an awesome time of fun, food, and [include other elements that will occur.]

In a minute I’m going to excuse you and we’ll [insert directions]. Please note that [important reminders or information.] Thank you and welcome again!

Membership or Business Meeting

Welcome speech #7.

Good [morning, afternoon, evening]. Thanks for making time to be here for [name of meeting type]. Our objective is to go over these items [briefly list topics] and be done in [time period]. If time allows we’ll also discuss [auxiliary items].

[If there are people who are new to this meeting] It looks like there are some new people here, so let’s quickly go around the room and introduce ourselves. From there, [name] will be taking minutes and we can get down to business.

Baby Dedication

Welcome speech #8.

Children are a gift from God. To recognize this gift and the responsibility to the parents, to the extended family, and to the community of faith, we are gathered to dedicate this child. My name is [name], and on behalf of the family, I would like to welcome you to [church name] for this wonderful event.

We believe that Christian parents have a wonderful joy, privilege, and duty to raise our children in a way that honors God. Because our children ultimately belong to God, it only seems appropriate that we take the time to dedicate [child name] to God.

[Any important information that people need to know about the ceremony or for after the ceremony.]

[Prayer if appropriate unless someone else is performing this step.] Let’s welcome [person responsible for dedication] up to the front as we begin.

Christmas Service

Welcome speech #9.

Good morning! We’re so thankful that you have chosen to worship with us at [church name] as we celebrate the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ. Whether you’re a regular attender or are just visiting with us this morning, we’re glad that you’re with us—and we’re excited to sing some Christmas carols and talk about what the season’s all about with you.

My name’s [name] and I just wanted to let you know [important service information]. If you’re visiting, it would mean a lot if you’d take a second to fill out one of the contact cards in [location of contact information] and deposit it [wherever your church puts them]. We’re looking forward to getting to know you better.

Won’t you pray with me? [Insert prayer] [Introduce next service element]

Easter Service

Welcome speech #10.

Welcome to [church name]! My name is [name], and I am excited you’re worshiping with us this Easter. If you’re a visitor, we want to thank you for joining us on the most celebratory Sunday of the year. Today we’ll be celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ with singing, teaching, [any other elements Sunday will include].

If you’re new here, please take a second right now to fill out a contact card located in [card location] and drop it in the offering plate as it come by. This will help us get to know you better. Please note that [insert important information that needs to be known about the service].

Join me as we pray. [Introduce next service element]

Connect with Your People Beyond Sunday

After the events of 2020, church shopping is on the rise. According to  Pew Research Center , many Americans are experiencing virtual services for the first time. Additionally, most virtual worshippers have watched congregations other than their own. Have you considered ways to engage new people beyond your virtual Sunday service? 

As your congregation grows, both in-person and online, it’s not easy to connect with (and stay connected with) everyone. Fortunately, there are some great tools to help keep people from slipping through the cracks. 

CHURCH APP 

With a church app , you can easily connect with people where they’re already at a majority of the time – their smartphones. If you use a platform like  Pushpay , you’ll have access to church app features such as: 

  • A streamlined  App Media Experience  that makes it easy for your people to stay connected and engaged. 
  • Custom Church App Profiles  so your people can choose what information they’d like to receive regularly.
  • Live Polls and Fill-in-the-Blank Notes  allow your people to engage with your sermon from the pew or their couch. 
  • Push Notifications  so you can send the right messages at the right time to the right people. 

CHURCH MANAGEMENT SYSTEM

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introduction speech before holy mass

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Introductory Rites

The Mass begins with the entrance chant/song. The celebrant and other ministers enter in procession and reverence the altar with a bow and/or a kiss. The altar is a symbol of Christ at the heart of the assembly and so deserves this special reverence. All make the Sign of the Cross and the celebrant extends a greeting to the gathered people in words taken from Scripture. The Penitential Act follows the greeting. At the very beginning of the Mass, the faithful recall their sins and place their trust in God's abiding mercy. The Penitential Act includes the Kyrie Eleison , a Greek phrase meaning, "Lord, have mercy." This litany recalls God's merciful actions throughout history. On Sundays, especially in Easter Time, in place of the customary Penitential Act, from time to time the blessing and sprinkling of water to recall Baptism may take place. On Sundays, solemnities, and feasts, the Gloria follows the Penitential Act. The Gloria begins by echoing the proclamation of the angels at the birth of Christ: "Glory to God in the highest!" In this ancient hymn, the gathered assembly joins the heavenly choirs in offering praise and adoration to the Father and Jesus through the Holy Spirit. The Introductory Rites conclude with an opening prayer, called the Collect. The celebrant invites the gathered assembly to pray and, after a brief silence, proclaims the prayer of the day. The Collect gathers the prayers of all into one and disposes all to hear the Word of God in the context of the celebration.

THE ORDER OF MASS

The introductory rites.

The Introductory Rites help the faithful come together as one, establish communion and prepare themselves properly to listen to the Word of God and to celebrate the Eucharist worthily.

All stand. The Priest approaches the altar with the ministers and venerates it while the Entrance Song is sung

Sign of the Cross

All make the Sign of the Cross as the Priest says.

The people reply:

Then the Priest greets the people:

The Priest, or a Deacon, or another minister, may very briefly introduce the faithful to the Mass of the day.

Penitential Act

The Priest invites the faithful to the Penitential Act.

A brief pause for silence follows, and then one of the following Penitential Acts:

And, striking their breast, they say:

The Priest says:

The Priest:

The people:

The Priest or another minister says invocations naming the gracious works of the Lord to which he invites the people to respond, as in the example below:

The absolution by the Priest follows:

The Kyrie, eleison (Lord, have mercy) invocations may follow:

Or:

When indicated this hymn is either sung or said.

introduction speech before holy mass

The Collect

And all pray in silence with the Priest for a while. Then the Priest says the Collect prayer, at the end of which the people acclaim:

The Liturgy of the Word

By hearing the word proclaimed in worship, the faithful again enter into the unending dialogue between God and the covenant people, a dialogue sealed in the sharing of the Eucharistic food and drink. The proclamation of the word is thus integral to the Mass and at its very centre. It is appropriate to have a brief time of quiet after the readings for those present to take the word of God to heart and begin to prepare a prayerful response to what they have heard.

First Reading

To indicate the end of these readings, the reader acclaims:

After the First Reading the psalmist or cantor sings or says the Psalm, with the people making the response.

Second Reading

On Sundays and certain other days there is a second reading. It concludes with the same responsory as above.

The assembly stands to sing the Gospel Acclamation to welcome the Gospel. They remain standing in honour of the Gospel reading, the high point of the Liturgy of the Word. At the ambo the Deacon, or the Priest says:

The Deacon, or the Priest:

He makes the Sign of the Cross on the book and, together with the people, on his forehead, lips, and breast. At the same time the people acclaim:

At the end of the Gospel, the Deacon, or the Priest, acclaims:

After the proclamation of the Gospel the congregation is seated.

At the end of the Homily it is appropriate for there to be a brief silence for recollection. The congregation then stands.

On Sundays and Solemnities, the Profession of Faith or Creed will follow. During Lent and Easter Time, especially, the Apostles’ Creed may be used.

The Niceno-Constantinopolitan Creed

The Apostles’ Creed

The Prayer of the Faithful (Bidding Prayers)

After each intention there is a pause while the faithful pray. The minister says:

The Priest concludes the Prayer with a collect. When the Liturgy of the Word has been completed, the people sit.

The Liturgy of the Eucharist

For Catholics, the Eucharist is the source and summit of the whole Christian life. It is the vital centre of all that the Church is and does, because at its heart is the real presence of the crucified, risen and glorified Lord, continuing and making available his saving work among us.

The Offertory

During the Offertory Song the faithful usually express their participation by making an offering, bringing forward bread and wine for the celebration of the Eucharist and perhaps other gifts to relieve the needs of the Church and of the poor.

When he has received the bread and wine for the celebration, the Priest offers prayer of blessing quietly at the altar. Sometimes these prayers are said aloud. If the priest says the prayers aloud the assembly’s acclamation each time is

The Priest completes additional personal preparatory rites, and the people rise as he says:

Then the Priest says the Prayer over the Offerings, at the end of which the people acclaim:

THE EUCHARISTIC PRAYER

The Eucharistic Prayer, the centre and summit of the entire celebration is a memorial proclamation of praise and thanksgiving for God’s work of salvation, a proclamation in which the Body and Blood of Christ are made present by the power of the Holy Spirit and the people are joined to Christ in offering his Sacrifice to the Father.

Extending his hands, the Priest says:

The Priest, raising his hands, continues:

The Priest, with hands extended, adds:

introduction speech before holy mass

The Priest continues with the Preface.

Eucharistic Prayer II has its own Preface, but other Prefaces can also be used.

The Eucharistic Prayers for Reconciliation may be used in Masses in which the mystery of reconciliation is conveyed to the faithful in a special way, as, for example, in the Masses for Promoting Harmony, For Reconciliation, For the Preservation of Peace and Justice, In Time of War or Civil Disturbance, For the Forgiveness of Sins, For Charity, of the Mystery of the Holy Cross, of the Most Holy Eucharist, of the Most Precious Blood of our Lord Jesus Christ, as well as in Masses during Lent. Although these Eucharistic Prayers have been provided with a proper Preface, they may also be used with other Prefaces that refer to penance and conversion, as, for example, the Prefaces of Lent.

Preface for Eucharistic Prayer II. Other Prefaces may also be used.

The two comings of Christ

The twofold expectation of Christ

Christ the Light

The restoration of all things in the Incarnation

The exchange in the Incarnation of the Word

Christ the light of the nations

The spiritual meaning of Lent

Spiritual penance

The fruits of abstinence

The fruits of fasting

The power of the Cross

The victory of the Passion

The Paschal Mystery

New life in Christ

Christ living and always interceding for us

The restoration of the universe through the Paschal Mystery

Christ, Priest and Victim

The mystery of the Ascension

The Paschal Mystery and the People of God

The mystery of salvation

The salvation of man by a man

The history of salvation

The pledge of the eternal Passover

Salvation through the obedience of Christ

The Church united by the unity of the Trinity

The Sacrifice and the Sacrament of Christ

The fruits of the Most Holy Eucharist

The Motherhood of the Blessed Virgin Mary

The Church praises God with the words of Mary

The Apostles, shepherds of God's people

The apostolic foundation and witness

The glory of the Saints

The action of the Saints

The sign and example of martyrdom

The wonders of God in the victory of the Martyrs

The presence of holy Pastors in the Church

The sign of a life consecrated to God

The renewal of all things in Christ

Salvation through Christ

Praise to God for the creation and restoration of the human race

Praise, the gift of God

The proclamation of the Mystery of Christ

The mystery of salvation in Christ

The hope of resurrection in Christ

Christ died so that we might live

Christ, the salvation and the life

From earthly life to heavenly glory

Our resurrection through the victory of Christ

Preface for Eucharistic Prayer IV.

The Church on the Path of Unity

The following form of this Eucharistic Prayer is appropriately used with Mass formularies such as, For the Church, For the Pope, For the Bishop, For the Election of a Pope or a Bishop, For a Council or Synod, For Priests, For the Priest Himself, For Ministers of the Church, and For a Spiritual or Pastoral Gathering.

God Guides His Church along the Way of Salvation

The following form of this Eucharistic Prayer is appropriately used with Mass formularies such as, For the Church, For Vocations to Holy Orders, For the Laity, For the Family, For Religious, For Vocations to Religious Life, For Charity, For Relatives and Friends, and For Giving Thanks to God.

Jesus, the Way to the Father

Jesus, Who Went About Doing Good

The following form of this Eucharistic Prayer is appropriately used with Mass formularies such as, For Refugees and Exiles, In Time of Famine or For Those Suffering Hunger, For Our Oppressors, For Those Held in Captivity, For Those in Prison, For the Sick, For the Dying, For the Grace of a Happy Death, and In Any Need.

The Priest concludes the Preface with the people singing or saying aloud:

introduction speech before holy mass

After the singing of the Sanctus the congregation kneels for the remainder of the Eucharistic Prayer.

The Priest alone recites:

The Priest alone says:

After the words of Consecration the priest says:

The people continue, acclaiming:

introduction speech before holy mass

Then the Priest alone continues:

At the conclusion of the Eucharistic Prayer the Priest takes the chalice and the paten with the host and, raising both, he alone says:

The Communion Rite

The eating and drinking together of the Lord’s Body and Blood in a Paschal meal is the culmination of the Eucharist. The themes underlying these rites are the mutual love and reconciliation that are both the condition and the fruit of worthy communion and the unity of the many in the One.

The Lord’s Prayer

The congregation stands and the Priest says:

Together with the people, he continues:

The Priest alone continues, saying:

The people conclude the prayer, acclaiming:

Then the Priest alone says aloud:

The Priest adds:

The Deacon, or the Priest, adds:

And all offer one another the customary sign of peace: a handclasp or handshake, which is an expression of peace, communion, and charity.

Breaking of the Bread

During the breaking of the host the following is sung or said:

introduction speech before holy mass

After the Lamb of God, the people kneel.

Invitation to Communion

After his private prayers of preparation the Priest genuflects, takes the host and, holding it slightly raised above the paten or above the chalice says aloud:

And together with the people he adds once:

After the priest has reverently consumed the Body and Blood of Christ the communicants come forward in reverent procession, and make a preparatory act of reverence by bowing their head in honour of Christ’s presence in the Sacrament. They receive Holy Communion standing. The Priest says:

The communicant replies:

When Communion is ministered under both kinds the minister of the Chalice raises it slightly and shows it to each of the communicants, saying:

After the distribution of Communion, if appropriate, a sacred silence may be observed for a while, or a psalm or other canticle of praise or a hymn may be sung.

Prayer after Communion

Then, the Priest says:

All stand and pray in silence. Then the Priest says the Prayer after Communion, at the end of which the people acclaim:

The Concluding Rites

The brief Concluding Rite sends the people forth to put into effect in their daily lives the Mystery of Christ’s Death and Resurrection and the unity in Christ which they have celebrated. Their mission is to witness to Christ in the world and to bring the Gospel to the poor.

Any brief announcements to the people follow here. Then the dismissal takes place. Sometimes this takes a more elaborate form than that given below.

The Priest blesses the people, saying:

Then the Deacon, or the Priest himself, says:

English translation © 2011 International Committee on English in the Liturgy, Inc. Concordat cum originali: Jane Porter, Department for Christian Life and Worship, Bishops' Conference of England and Wales. Imprimatur: Peter Smith, Archbishop of Southwark, 30 August 2011. Permission granted for distribution in the dioceses of Scotland.

Interaction design, HTML/CSS/Javascript coding and programming © 2011 Universalis Publishing Limited.

THE REAL PRESENCE CHRIST IN THE EUCHARIST

Introduction to the Eucharist

-





16. "I WILL NOT LEAVE YOU ORPHANS"

  - Fr. John A. Hardon, S. J.
Let us focus on two features of this mystery: first reflecting upon the Eucharist as Reality and secondly as Presence. What is this Reality to which the Church strongly directs our attention?…This Reality is God present in a different special way. The essence of what we believe here is that God is present as man. The Eucharist began with the Incarnation, in the womb of Mary. Except for her there would be no Jesus and without Him there is no reality to speak of, in the Eucharist. The Eucharist is unqualifyingly Jesus Christ!

  - Fr. John A. Hardon, S. J.
The purpose of our present meditation is to explain how the Mass is the sacrifice sacrament of the Eucharist. Again, we will draw on the church’s teaching on the Mass, especially focusing on definitions from the Council of Trent in the sixteenth century. We will also examine Pope Pius XII’s teachings on the Mass, upon which the Second Vatican Council built its base document on Eucharist liturgy.

  - Fr. John A. Hardon, S. J.
"Our focus will be on what we mean when we say the Sacred Heart is the Holy Eucharist. Then, we shall discuss why this is so and how we can put Sacred Heart devotion into practice."

  - Fr. John A. Hardon, S. J.

"There is no single subject in spiritual literature that is more highly recommended or insisted upon as more indispensable than the spirit of recollection or living in God's presence...The important thing is, how do we grow or develop in this living in God's presence?"

  - Fr. John A. Hardon, S. J.
"The most important duty we have in life as believing Catholics is to understand what we believe. Not to understand what we are supposed to believe is to invite the evil spirit to rob us of the faith we once possessed."

  - Fr. John A. Hardon, S. J.
"The Mass and Holy Communion derive all their meaning from the Real Presence of Jesus Christ in the Blessed Sacrament"

  - Fr. John A. Hardon, S.J.
When the Council of Trent in the sixteenth century defined the meaning of the Eucharist, it declared that "the Body and Blood, together with the Soul and Divinity of our Lord Jesus Christ, and therefore the whole Christ, is truly, really and substantially contained in the sacrament of the Holy Eucharist."

  - Cardinal Jan Pieter Schotte
"It is the Eucharist that defines us, it is the Holy Eucharist that makes us Catholic, it is devotion to the Holy Eucharist that puts us in the right relationship with God."

  - Fr. John A. Hardon, S.J.
"If there is one mystery of our Faith that is being widely challenged today it is the Real Presence of Christ in the Blessed Sacrament. Pope John Paul II is deeply concerned about this weakening of belief in the cardinal truth of Catholic Christianity."

  - Fr. John A. Hardon, S.J.

"What is Faith? Why is Faith important in the life of a Christian? How is Faith imperative in the life of a Catholic priest? We can give summary attention to the first two questions and concentrate on the third; yet I do not think that, given the state of things in the Church today, we should glide over either the meaning of faith or its importance in the life of every Catholic Christian."

  - Fr. John A. Hardon, S.J.
To understand how indispensable the Eucharist is to the practice of Christian chastity is to understand the meaning of Christianity. When Christ told us, "Without me, you can do nothing," He meant this to be taken literally. Without the constant help of His grace to enlighten our darkened minds and strengthen our weak wills, all the moral precepts of the New Testament are so much pious rhetoric or religious jargon.

  - Fr. John A. Hardon, S.J. (Catholic.Net)

  - John Paul II
Apostolic Constitution for the Pomulgation of the New Code of Canon Law, Sacrae Disciplinae Leges.

  - Fr. John A. Hardon, S. J.
"Nowadays there are so many people who call themselves Catholic but really are not. There are books published and periodicals; there are conferences given, and symposiums held; there are religious programs and celebrations sponsored, and all professedly Catholic. But so many of these are Catholic only in name and not in reality."

  - Carol Breslin
When Christ, the Second Person of the Blessed Trinity became man he assumed our human nature by taking on the flesh of Mary. He became man for four reasons: 1) to save us by reconciling us with God; 2) that we might know God’s love; 3) to be our model of holiness; and 4) that we may be partakers of the divine nature. "He himself declared that the reason of His advent among men was this, that He might bring them the assured fullness of a more than merely human life."

Answers on the Eucharist

  - Fr. John A. Hardon, S.J.
"No one, and the word is no one, will reach heaven from his or her own natural rational knowledge of God. Only the supernatural knowledge otherwise known as divine faith is adequate as the foundation for salvation."

  - Fr. John A. Hardon, S.J.
"The purpose of knowing God is to love Him. And the better we know Him the more we can love Him...this fundamental mandate of Sacred Scripture, of our duty, mind you, no option here, duty, of our duty to Love God, we must immediately point out the world of difference between the two Testaments on the same commandments."

  - Fr. John A. Hardon, S.J.
"One of the surprises of the church's teachings since the Second Vatican Council is its strong emphasis on devotion to the Real Presence. Worship of the Holy Eucharist, not only during Mass or when receiving Holy Communion but as reserved on the altar, has been part of Catholic life and practice since the earliest centuries."

  - Fr. John A. Hardon, S.J.

"There is an obvious risk in talking about contemporary spirituality. The suspicion may be raised that the spiritual life has different forms in different ages, and that perhaps even the essence of sanctity changes with the times. It may also suggest that Christian perfection somehow depends on being up-to-date, which in more biblical language would mean conformity to the world and the world's models of greatness. It may even intimate that unless a person has first learned the art of being (what is now a "sacred word") "relevant", that person cannot be holy."

  - Fr. John A. Hardon, S.J.
"Interior peace is of two kinds: one in the heart or will and the other in the mind or intellect. They are closely connected but they are not the same."

  - Fr. Robert Goedert, O.P.

  - Rev. Regis Scanlon, O.F.M. Cap. (EWTN)

  - Bishop John R. Keating (EWTN)

"Those who behold the Sacrament of the Eucharist, consecrated by the priest, but see only the appearances of bread and wine and do not—with the grace of the Holy Spirit—believe that it is truly the Body and Blood of Christ, condemn themselves, because they do not believe the testimony of the Lord himself who says: ‘This is my Body and Blood of the new covenant’ and who promises ‘He who eats my Flesh and drinks my Blood has eternal life’ (John 6:56). And just as he showed himself to his holy Apostles in the form of man, in like manner he allows himself to be seen in the consecrated bread. Despite the fact that with the eyes of the body they saw only the flesh—but by contemplating it with the eyes of faith believed nonetheless that he was God—so we, too, seeing the bread and wine with the eyes of the body, believe that the most holy Body and Blood are present, alive and true, in the Eucharist. In this way, the Lord is always present in the midst of his faithful, as he himself promised, saying: ‘Behold, I am with you until the end of the world’" (Matthew 28:20).  -- St. Francis of Assisi

Photos of the Holy Father are ©Grzegorz Galazka and used with permission of Inside the Vatican magazine, 1-800-789-9494.

THE REAL PRESENCE OF CHRIST IN THE EUCHARIST



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