How to Talk to People at Church
#1 More Conversation Starters
"Do you know if there's a good time to speak with the [pastor/church secretary] about [getting involved/a question I have]?"
A practical question showing genuine interest in church matters, which they might be able to answer or direct you.
"The [decorations/flower arrangements] for [this season/the altar] are really impressive. Do you know who's responsible for them?"
A specific compliment about the church's aesthetics, potentially leading to information about various church ministries or volunteers.
"Do you know if there's a [coffee hour/fellowship meal] after the service today? I'm hoping to [meet some new people/grab a bite]."
A practical question about post-service activities, indicating a desire for community and making it easy for them to share information and potentially invite you.
"I was just thinking about how much I enjoy the [music/sermons] here. What draws you to this particular church?"
A more direct question about their reasons for attending, inviting a deeper conversation about their connection to the church.
"Excuse me, is this pew [taken/available]? It's getting a bit [crowded/warm] over here."
A polite and practical question that subtly acknowledges shared circumstances (the church setting) and can lead to a brief exchange.
"I apologize, did you drop your [hymnal/pen]? (Pick up a dropped item and offer it to them.)"
A helpful action that creates an immediate, low-pressure opportunity for interaction.
"Wow, this is a beautiful [church building/stained glass window]. Is there any particular history behind [it/this part of the church]?"
A compliment about the church's physical aspects, inviting them to share knowledge or appreciation for their place of worship.
"This is my first time at a [revival/potluck]. What should I expect?"
Expressing a slight unfamiliarity with a church event, asking for guidance and allowing them to be an expert.
"This [church picnic/fellowship event] looks like a lot of fun. Are you enjoying the [food/activities]?"
A casual observation about a church social event, inviting a simple, positive response about their experience.
"Excuse me, I'm trying to find the [restrooms/children's ministry area]. Could you point me in the right direction?"
A straightforward request for help that opens the door for a brief interaction and allows them to be helpful.
"I'm [new to this church/visiting from out of town], and I was wondering if there are any [fellowship groups/volunteer opportunities] that you'd recommend?"
This expresses a genuine interest in getting involved or learning more, providing a clear path for them to offer information and engage in a helpful way.
"Excuse me, I think I saw you at the [bake sale/food drive] last [month/week]. Did you [volunteer there/help out with the desserts]?"
Recalling a previous shared (or potentially shared) event, indicating you've noticed them and are engaging with church activities.
"I haven't seen you here before, or perhaps I just haven't noticed. Are you [visiting/new to the congregation]?"
Similar to the gym example, this acknowledges their presence and asks about their familiarity with the church in a non-intrusive way.
"That was a really [moving/powerful] reading. Do you have a favorite [passage/book of the Bible]?"
Connects on a spiritual level through the service, inviting a more personal (but still appropriate for church) response about their faith.
"It's great to see so many [families/young people/older members] here today. This church really seems to embrace [all ages/community involvement]."
A general positive observation about the congregation, highlighting a perceived strength of the church and inviting agreement or elaboration.
"I was just admiring your [cross necklace/lapel pin]. It's really lovely."
A sincere compliment on an item of religious significance they are wearing, which can open a discussion about their faith or personal style.
"I noticed your [pin/scarf] with the [symbol/design]. Does it represent anything special to you?"
A specific observation about something they are wearing that might have a personal meaning, inviting them to share a story or interest.
"Excuse me, I'm trying to find the [sign-up sheet for the missions trip/information desk for youth group]. Do you know where it might be?"
A focused, practical question about a specific church activity, indicating your interest and making it easy for them to provide direction.
"That was a really [thought-provoking sermon/beautiful hymn]. What did you think of [it/the part about forgiveness]?"
This opens with a shared experience at church, inviting a response about their personal take on a specific element. It's a natural and low-pressure way to connect on common ground.
"I'm trying to decide which [Bible study/volunteer group] to join. Have you participated in any that you particularly enjoyed?"
Shows active interest in church life and asks for their personal recommendations, valuing their experience.
"It seems like a lot of people know each other here. Have you been a member for a long time?"
Observes the sense of community and asks about their tenure, which can lead to stories about the church.
"It's a beautiful [day/evening] for [worship/a church event], isn't it?"
A simple, pleasant observation about the weather or timing that encourages a quick, positive exchange.
"I really loved the way the [choir sang that last piece/ushers helped everyone find a seat]. They did a fantastic job."
A simple compliment about something positive within the church environment. It shows appreciation and invites agreement or further comment.
"I'm feeling a bit [tired/distracted] today, but that [sermon/prayer] really [woke me up/resonated with me]. How are you feeling after the service?"
Shares a small, relatable personal feeling and then shifts to asking about their experience, creating a more personal connection.