Beth,
Thanks for the email. Good question.
I think this requires more than a talk. There are several things you can do:
- I'd address it with my student leaders. I don't know if you have a student leadership program (you'll see some of my student leadership apps, etc. on my LOGISTICAL CRUD page) I'd train my students about reaching out. (See my article on the I NEED TO KNOW HOW TO . . . page- HOW DO I UNDERSTAND AND REACH THE UNCHURCHED TEEN)
- Then I'd make sure my staff models it. If my staff mingles with new kids- if they greet them the same, invite them on trips, in small groups, etc. then the new kids feel as "noticed" as the old.
- Use small groups. It puts new kids in a position where they get to know others and others get to know them. Small groups break down walls and create greater intimacy. You can see my article on small groups on my I NEED TO KNOW HOW TO . . . page as well.
Hope that helps.
God Bless,
Jonathan