Unless the event is very casual and short, have a welcoming talk - it can be short, informal and friendly.

Useful information to include for your audience as appropriate:

• Who is organising, hosting, sponsoring the event
• The aims or purpose of the event
• Outline of the programme. (Even if it's printed out, they may not read it)
• Information on breaks, refreshments or catering arrangements, toilet facilities and cloakrooms, prayer room or other facilities, fire exits. Any requirements or requests from the venue.
• Any expectations you have of them; information about how questions and discussion will be handled, feedback or evaluation forms, if using
• Introduce your speakers
  

A closing talk can also include:

• Thanks to the speakers and participants
• Thanks to all for attending
• Thanks to your team and supporters
• Remind people to fill in their feedback or evaluation forms if using
• Information about forthcoming events or other promotional pep-talk for your organisation deas, themes, resolutions emerging from the day to carry forward