We are officially approaching the halfway point of this SZN! While the weeks are moving quickly, don’t just let them slip by. Make memories with your Crew, laugh together, lean into the moments inside gatherings and outside of them, and keep making an impact in the lives around you.

This week, I want to remind us of something powerful: it’s the little things that make the biggest difference.

As leaders, we know that the atmosphere we set at Crew, the conversations we guide, the one-on-one moments of prayer, and even the time we spend outside of Crew can leave a lasting mark on someone’s life. But in the middle of all the “big” things, let’s never overlook the “small” ones, those gestures that help people feel seen, heard, and loved.

Think back: how did you find Crew? Were you invited? Did you sign up on the website? Do you remember the moment someone reached out to welcome you? That little step may have changed the course of your journey. And now, we get to be that bridge for others, helping people discover not just a Crew, but a family they can belong to.

Here’s the truth: there are people around us who are searching, sometimes silently. A personal invite in the courtyard, a warm text, or a timely response to a sign-up could be the very thing that keeps someone from feeling unseen or alone. As leaders, God has entrusted us with people, not numbers, not names on a list, but stories that matter to Him deeply.

Pastor Manouchka reminded us last week: put people first. Every face is someone Jesus loves. Every sign-up is a soul looking for community. Let’s lean in and be intentional.

Here are a few simple, practical ways to keep people first this SZN:

1. Respond Quickly
   When someone signs up for your Crew, reply within 24 hours. That first warm response often makes all the difference.‍
2. Follow Up with Care
   Don’t stop at one text. It may take two or three touches before someone shows up, but your persistence says, “You matter.”‍
3. Pray for Them by Name
   Prayer softens hearts and prepares the way. Pray before you reach out, and seize every opportunity to pray with people when you can.‍
4. Stay Present
   Be on the lookout for new faces. Notice the quieter voices. Create an atmosphere where everyone feels safe, valued, and drawn in.‍
5. Keep Inviting
   Step into the courtyard after service. Smile, start conversations, and extend personal invites. A simple, “Are you in a Crew yet?” could change someone’s journey forever.

Leaders, you are making an eternal impact—one moment, one text, one conversation at a time. Don’t slow down halfway through the SZN. Keep leaning in, keep shining bright, and keep being the light that helps people find Jesus and family.

What you’re building matters. Let's have the best week yet!

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