Pastor is coming over for coffee on Tuesday - what should I expect?

[DisneyLovingMama]

I'm in the process of converting to Presbyterianism with my two children. We've been attending services for a couple of months a local church. I've chatted with the Pastor several times, but haven't gone to the gatherings after services, or any other special events. DD is participating in the school's Sunday School program, though.

So, the pastor called and said he wanted to come over for coffee to "get to know me better".

What should I expect? What other things should I have besides coffee? Is this going to be an inquiry? I'm so nervous.

 

[disykat]

I would guess he just wants to personally welcome you. He might ask what kinds of things you'd like to be involved with, etc.

 

[clarabelle]

I am a Presbyterian. Which kind of Presbyterian? Reformed? PCUSA? PCA?There are several and it could give you a feel for what to expect at the meeting.
Most Presbyterians are pretty undemonstrative. So I would not worry about him/her trying to "Gang Save" you.
This is your chance to ask some questions about the church and share a bit about yourself.
I would not worry about judgements or passing a test or anything.
I was on our outreach committee and it was a constant struggle trying to find the right balance between being welcoming and being too pushy.
Remember they want you to stay -they don't want to make you feel unwanted.

 

[liamsaunt]

Well, my background is Catholic, but I will never forget our Catholic pastor coming to our house for "tea". My Mom served him her pie. Every bite, he said "this is the most ELEGANT apple pie!"
I think the purpose of any pastor visiting your house is to make you feel welcome and part of a community. Whatever you serve him he/she will like (or will pretend to!). Don't worry about it, they are coming to your house to try and cement your activism in your church. Just fire up the coffee pot and you'll be fine.

(Funny aside for Catholics--when our pastor came for pie, he brought me a "special present," a pair of rosaries that were, according to him, blessed by the pope just for me. Yeah, I fell for it!)

 

[clarabelle]

I think the purpose of any pastor visiting your house is to make you feel welcome and part of a community. Whatever you serve him he/she will like (or will pretend to!). Don't worry about it, they are coming to your house to try and cement your activism in your church. Just fire up the coffee pot and you'll be fine.

What I meant about the denomination mattering -some may want to have more of a "Salvation" talk than others.
I know that doesn't usually come into play with RC.

 

[DisneyLovingMama]

They type of church is PCUSA. I really do like the church, but am uncomfortable with my own faith, since I've pretty been a non-believer, actually non-demonstrative, for most of my adult life. I was raised Roman Catholic. But, this church is much more in line with my beliefs. I feel comfortable there and enjoy going to church for the first time in my entire life.

I'm still nervous. I do feel like I'm going to be judged or tested.

 

[clarabelle]

Thats what I am as well.
So you don't have to worry about talk about salvation.
As you probably know since you are checking it out -we are known as a bit more "liberal". We strive to be open and welcoming. I don't think you have anything to worry about.
I hope it is a postitive experience for you. Also- I think maybe some Pepperidge Farms cookies may be in order with the coffee!
If you haven't already check out the pcusa website www.pcusa.org

Also there is a book if you are interested:

Being Presbyterian in the Bible Belt: A Theological Survival Guide for Youth, Parents, and Other Confused Presbyterians
by Ted V. Foote,
Even if you are not in the Bible Belt it gives you some simple answers to questions that you may have.