By Jason Allison

This is part 7 of my Casino & Churches series. We are looking at some of the parallels between my first-time experience at a Casino and the experience first-time guests at your church have.  

Parallel #1: I felt like I was walking on eggshells.

Parallel #2: Stranger Danger!

Parallel #3: The Regulars

Parallel #4: Here’s Your Sign

Parallel #5: Risky Business

Parallel #6: Where Do I Start?

There needed to be a clear indication of how to get started if you were new. 

In the casino I didn’t know how to get started. I knew I needed chips, but not where to buy them or how much to change. I felt out of place watching someone exchange $1,500 while I only had $25.

First‑time guests at your church need clear, simple directions about how to participate. They want to know: Can I just walk into the room and observe? Do I need to check in first? What will the next hour look like? Will I feel awkward if I don’t know what to do?

Assume many newcomers have little or no church experience and may be uncomfortable asking. Provide straightforward steps for first‑time guests (arrival, where to sit, how to engage, how to ask questions). Test your process by recruiting a true outsider to visit anonymously and give honest feedback. Ask them about signage, regulars, first impressions, and what their perceived next steps would be if they wanted to learn more. Debrief the team and adjust.

Up next: Parallel #7 between your church and a casino — The Power of a Friend.