Easter Opportunities
When was the last time you invited someone to church?
Do you feel intimidated? Or are you concerned about upsetting someone? Are you friends and family staying close to home still?
There are a variety of reasons why you might be holding back, but I want to share 3 quick reasons why Easter can be the perfect time to invite someone. Plus a few creative ways to go about doing it.
Reasons why…
1. The Easter Story is full of Hope
Easter reminds us that death never has the final word. Out of the worst circumstances, God overcomes and new life is possible. With the war in Ukraine and the continued stress of finding normalcy with COVID -19, everyone can appreciate some good news and hope filled experiences.
2. Many Celebrated Easter
Chocolate bunnies, decorating eggs, egg hunts, and dressing up are just a few of the fun activities associated with Easter for children. Those who have never been to church most likely have had some sort of positive association with Easter, such as Spring Break or Easter egg hunts at the park. These memories can be a powerful thing, and for those who have drifted away from Christian Community, an Easter service could be what sparks a new or renewed desire to be connected.
3. Easter is Fun
Easter activities aren’t just for kids! Inviting family and friends over for lunch or dinner on Easter is a great way to bring church home and continue the outreach to others. Asking someone to go to church as part of a bigger plan for the day makes the church portion less intimidating, especially for those who haven’t been in a while.
So, whether it’s for Easter worship or another church gathering, you can begin with a simple, “Hey, would you like to go to church with me this week?” Be sure to use the invite cards / postcards we handed out last week or you can grab a few this week from church. The cards have the location and service times. If that feels too intimidating, here are a few other ideas that are a little more creative and sure to make someone feel loved.
Send the postcard via snail mail with a hand written note on the back.
Make a post on your social media and utilize Aldersgate Carrollton’s social media. Social media can be an incredible tool when used appropriately. You can simply visit the aldersgate facebook page and invite one or more friends right from there. As I was writing this, I just visited the page, clicked that I was going, and invited 25 local friends to come with me in less than one minute. It’s extremely easy!
Bake (or buy) baked goods. Who doesn’t love chocolate Chip Cookies or mini cupcakes? Whatever your specialty, whip something up and deliver it in person. To make it even easier, grab an extra prepared treat the next time you’re at the grocery store. This act alone will brighten someone’s day, and if you’re already there delivering a thoughtful surprise, it’s the perfect time to give someone an invite card from church with a simple, “Hey, would you like to go to church with me on Easter?”
Now that you have simple ways to invite and good reasons why… go ahead and invite someone to church this weekend! Who might you invite?
Is it that neighbor you casually say hi to when checking the mail? Or is it your brother who hasn’t been to a service in years? Maybe it’s someone you haven’t seen for a while, but they’ve been on your mind. Think of at least three people or families you can invite. Write their names down right now.
Go ahead… I will wait…
Got three? Great, now pick which strategy you want to use and do it. What’s the worst thing that can happen? They don’t accept the invitation. But the gesture of a gift, a card, or a personal invitation alone can have a huge impact on the person. It is s simple reminder that you are thinking about them. You never know, they might be feeling lonely or disconnected and your invitation could be the caring touch they needed.
With Gratitude,
Rodney Whitfield
