The Deputation Process: Eating Out With the Pastor or Church Members

 

The Deputation Process: Eating Out With the Pastor or Church Members

Many times, after the service is over the pastor or a church member will invite you out to lunch/dinner. You should try to go with them unless there is a time constraint that doesn’t allow for it! It is a great time to get to know the pastor and his family better or the church member and his family! Here are some things to keep in mind as you are going out to eat with them:

  1. Mind your manners— I know this is really simple, but if you are not minding your manners when going out to eat that can leave a bad impression on the pastor or church member about you and your family. Just make sure to be courteous and mind your manners! If you do not know what manners are when going out to eat, then find a book on manners and follow it!
  2. Don’t order the most expensive thing on the menu— This is just common courtesy, but be mindful of the menu and what is on it. You do not have to get the least expensive thing, but don’t be that selfish guy who tries to get the most expensive thing on the menu! This can leave a bad impression of you to the pastor and the church and in all reality, is very inconsiderate.
  3. Find out what they normally order—This helps you to gauge what they normally spend at the restaurant so you are not being rude or being expensive to them. If it is a new restaurant to them, then allow them to order first and this will help give you a guideline of what price to stay around!
  4. Be grateful— Be thankful the entire time. Not just for them taking you out to eat, but letting you come and for all they did for you. We, as missionaries, should be the most grateful people!
  5. Ask questions—Find out things about the pastor or church member who has taken you out. Talk about church, family, hobbies, things like that. If there are things they like to do then talk about what they like to talk about!
  6. Be willing to pay the bill—Be mindful of the pastor or church member. Many times they want to take you out to eat to be a blessing to you, but sometimes you will come across a church that is struggling or the pastor is struggling. Be willing to cover the bill to be a blessing to them! Many times you won’t have to, but at least be willing to pay!

Going out with a pastor or church member is usually a great and fun time! It is a good time to grow closer to the people and the church! Just remember the few things up above and it will help keep it that way! What about you? Any thoughts or comments on the list or anything you would add? Let us know by commenting below!