TN158 Body language: take care

First published on this website in July 2025

Synopsis

One of our most powerful communication tools is our own body. We send out messages by the way we look, the way we move and the way we present ourselves.

These notes take 12 examples of body language in a church context. In each case a church leader or member is described coming across in a way that may be unhelpful and which presents a message that was not intended. Examples include:

• lack of eye contact

• invasion of personal space

• mannerisms

• failure to listen

• facial expression give-aways.

There is application for preachers, lesson readers, leaders of small groups, chairs of business meetings, members of a welcome team and the church staff working together.

These notes can be used to check out yourself as to which of the examples might apply to you, but can also impact training and group work. Much depends on the cultural context you are working within.