7 Ways to Make the Most Out of Easter
Easter is right around the corner! If you’re like me (Chris Highfill), you sometimes wait until the last minute to get planning started. But don’t worry—here are some quick tips to help your church make a big impact and create lasting momentum leading into and following Easter.
1. Consider Adding a Service
Easter is the perfect time to experiment with an additional service. You can even frame it as a trial run. If adding a service has been on your mind, this is a great opportunity to see how it works. It will challenge your church leaders to solve problems, implement effective systems, and discover that it’s easier than it seems. Adding a service maximizes ministry potential and provides more opportunities for people to attend.
2. Equip Your People to Invite
Empower your congregation with tools and encouragement to invite others. Provide resources such as invite cards, social media graphics, and even text suggestions for reaching out to friends and family. In the weeks leading up to Easter, inspire them through sermons and testimonies—highlighting stories of how an invitation changed someone’s life. People need reminders and encouragement to extend that simple, impactful invite.
3. Make the Guest Experience Great
As one of my mentors said, “People don’t invite to average.” Make sure the guest experience stands out! Use this time to declutter your lobby, clearly mark guest parking, streamline kids’ check-in, and upgrade your coffee. Ensure every detail communicates warmth, excellence, and intentionality—all in a way that reflects the heart of your church.
4. Give Them the Gospel and a Chance to Respond
Many attending Easter services may have never heard the gospel clearly presented. Share the good news in a way that resonates and connects. Then, provide a tangible opportunity for them to respond—whether through a text-in number, a connection card, or an invitation moment. This step is vital for those who are ready to take their first step of faith.
5. Challenge Them to Come Back
People are motivated by challenges, so invite your Easter attendees to a “Three-Week Challenge.” Encourage them to commit to coming back for the next three Sundays and make it easy by sharing service times and details. Often, the next step for a guest isn’t baptism or membership—it’s simply returning to church the following week.
6. Kick Off a Sermon Series the Week After
As part of your invitation for people to return, announce a new sermon series starting the week after Easter. Make it engaging and relevant for both believers and non-believers. Share a preview during your Easter service so attendees know it’s a perfect time to come back and learn more about God and His plan for their lives.
7. Celebrate What God Did
After Easter, send an email celebrating everything God did. Highlight salvations, first-time guest numbers, impactful stories, and memorable moments. This encourages your congregation by reminding them they are part of a church making a real difference. Don’t miss this opportunity to honor God’s work and build momentum.
Conclusion
Easter is a powerful season of ministry—and with some intentional preparation, it can be a catalyst for lasting impact in your church and community. From adding a service to celebrating what God has done, each step plays a vital role in maximizing the opportunity Easter provides. Let’s make this season one to remember as we point people to the life-changing hope of Jesus!