“They’re not from here.” That was my first thought when I heard them speaking.

I was at a local business and the individual helping me had a strong northern accent. While we were talking, a couple with a very similar accent approached and began speaking to him. In short order, I was part of the conversation and learned the couple was new to the area. Originally from New York, they had lived in Florida as well. The gentleman helping us was from Massachusetts.

We ended up having things in common to talk about. As a teenager the woman had lived in Louisville, the city where I attended seminary and some of my relatives still live. That led to both us discussing our memories of the announcement on TV that President Kennedy had been assassinated (long story). They had lived in Buffalo, not far from where we are supporting a church plant in Rochester. The guy helping us was a history buff and we discussed my trip to Boston and Fenway Park for a Red Sox game several years ago. It turned out that he worked with a member of our church and had actually seen me on TV. He watches our services on Sundays and has had conversations with his coworker about the church. I could go on, but you get the point.

I was also able to invite them to attend FBC and give them information on our worship services. I hope they come. I really enjoyed talking to them. It was fun.

I’ve learned that people, no matter where they’re from, are usually friendly and life is so much better when don’t just keep to ourselves. After all, God is the one who created us to need relationships.

I’ve also learned that the first step in talking to new people is noticing them in the first place. The second step is to simply smile and say “hello.” After that it comes pretty naturally.

I hope you notice someone new this week and say “hello.”

Pastor Steve Hogg