How to Be the Church People Are Looking For

In Episode 4188 of the Day1 Radio Show and Podcast, Rev. Dr. Charles Qualls, senior pastor of Franklin Baptist Church in Franklin, Virginia, sits down with host Rev. Dr. Katie Givens Kime for a conversation that cuts straight to the heart of congregational life: welcome.

This brief but rich interview clip offers a reframe for churches anxious about declining attendance or shifting expectations. With honesty and warmth, Dr. Qualls reminds us that effective outreach doesn’t come from fear—but from authenticity. The insight is grounded not only in 2 Kings 2, the basis for his sermon “Called to Connection,” but also in years of pastoral experience.

Watch the Clip

Transcript

Rev. Dr. Katie Givens Kime
In giving a cup of cold water, Charles, to folks who might not yet feel connected to a Christian community but are feeling drawn to these conversations, what would you say are just some steps, or some bits of hope to remember, or ways to get started?

Rev. Dr. Charles Qualls
You know, I think anxiety doesn't sell. I think fear doesn't sell. And I think a lot of congregations these days lead with anxiety and fear in what they think is outreach.

And I think one of the most courageous things we can do is be ourselves. Do things for the right reasons, do things we are good at instead of attempting things that we're not good at.

And I think at that point, then we show them our genuine selves without begging them to come join us because we need them.

Us needing them won't sell. I'm convinced of that.

Us welcoming them. I think that is something that some people are looking for.

Rev. Dr. Katie Givens Kime
Throw a party worth attending.

Rev. Dr. Charles Qualls
There you go, exactly.

Reflection

As we move deeper into the Pentecost season, we are reminded that the Spirit gathers—not coerces. And that the church’s greatest tool may simply be its people, showing up with kindness and conviction.

Consider these questions as you reflect:

• What does “being ourselves” look like in our own congregations?
• Are there ways we’ve led with anxiety instead of welcome?
• How can your church become a place that’s known for joyful presence rather than strategic pressure?

Explore Rev. Dr. Charles Qualls’s full sermon from episode 4188 >>>

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