Watch out for the mystery churchgoer

5:25pm Thursday 4th September 2008

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MYSTERY worshippers will drop in unannounced on churches in the region on Sunday to assess everything from the comfort of the pews to the length of the sermon.

Warmth of welcome, quality of music and even the refreshments will come under scrutiny from a team of trained researchers.

A secret hitlist of more than 20 services across the north of England has been drawn up.

The inspections are being organised by the Christian Research Association.

They will be the first ever in the region by the organisation, following trials of the ChurchCheck scheme in the Midlands last year.

The mystery worshippers fill in a detailed questionnaire after their visit.

The documents includes questions on size of congregation, pre-service atmosphere, the type of hymns and whether the singing was uplifting or uncomfortable.

The quality of the after- service chat and whether the congregation was put under pressure for donations is also assessed.

All researchers are trained mystery shoppers - few, if any, are regular churchgoers.

Their findings will be presented at the Northern Christian Resources Exhibition in Harrogate, North Yorkshire, later this month.

Steve Briars, northern CRE event director, said: "ChurchCheck researchers will visit a range of services reflecting different traditions and styles. The project will help us monitor where local churches need more advice in welcoming new visitors."

Benita Hewitt, director of the Christian Research Association, said: "Matthew 25:35 says when I was a stranger, you welcomed me'.

"But are churches around the country doing that?

"We're delighted to be working with CRE on ChurchCheck Sunday to find out if churches really are welcoming strangers.

"The first impression someone receives at church is so important and ChurchCheck puts it to the test.

"It gives a simple and accurate account of a church's interaction with newcomers, and the results provide very precise actionable information to help churches improve."

Canon Jon Bell, chaplain to the Bishop of Durham, said: "We're very happy to welcome anyone into the church and would look forward to finding out, in the fullness of time, what the mystery worshippers thought."