Ken Carter, a United Methodist bishop, says, “Don’t make fun of people who only attend church this time each year; they are telling you that, when it matters, yours is their home church.”
On Easter Sunday (just like on Christmas Eve), your church may see a surge of attendees who aren’t there week-to-week. Regular worshippers sometimes joke about the so-called “Christmas and Easter people.” Instead, approach these guests with wonder and gratitude. Take Bishop Carter’s words to heart and recognize their presence as a sign that your church IS their spiritual home, where they feel welcomed and can encounter God’s love and mercy.
Easter is a prime moment to share the Good News at the core of our faith. Christ’s resurrection promises new life and hope in every situation. This truth resonates deeply and tends to draw guests or longtime members who have drifted away. This season, you have the opportunity to invite infrequent attendees who consider your church home to celebrate this hope.
You can also connect with new faces on Easter. Higher-attendance services are prime moments for invitation, since many are drawn to familiar rituals and hymns. Invite a neighbor, friend, or coworker who needs Easter hope. Offer to sit with them, worship together, and share the story that changes everything.
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As we approach Easter, churches should prioritize hospitality. Encourage members to invite a friend and to reach out to someone they haven’t seen recently. Train more than just your hospitality team so everyone warmly greets all who walk through the doors.
A few practical steps and questions to ask:
- Are your Easter service times correct on your website, social media, and via Google search?
- Do you have clear signage and greeters at all entrances?
- Could a newcomer easily navigate from the parking lot to the sanctuary unassisted?
- How are you gathering contact information from guests, and what is the follow-up plan?
- How are you equipping and encouraging congregation members to make Easter invitations?
- How are you encouraging the congregation to ALL be on the look out for guests and folks who have returned after an absence in order to greet them warmly this season?
As you prepare for Easter, cultivate a culture of hospitality where guests feel truly seen, valued, and at home, because your church IS their church.
Adapted from and inspired by Christmas reflections by Rev. Taylor Mertins (Raleigh Court UMC) and Rev. Brian Johnson (Williamsburg UMC), originally shared via Facebook and church emails in December. Used with permission.