Most of us have taken down our Christmas decorations. (I heard a survey that said 14% of people leave them up through Valentine’s.) Go for it. But most of us, at least in the church world, are beginning to think about how to prepare for Easter.
It’s been said the early bird gets the worm. I’ve never been able to prove that saying, but certainly without a plan you will accomplish less than with one. It’s now time to start planning and prepare for Easter.
How to Prepare For Easter
1. Strategically consider service times.
Decide now when you are having services so you can prepare your staff and volunteers for the added demands of Easter weekend. In my observation, offering more service options is the norm these days. When I lived next door to a Catholic Church I was amazed at the number of services they had. They truly made it “convenient” for their parishioners. I’m not suggesting that. The priests at this church had lots of help delivering messages from deacons and other priests. I am suggesting you consider stretching your current offerings, if appropriate.
What if you added one opportunity this year to your Easter services? For example, at my previous church where I last served, we had success with a noon Friday service. We attracted lots of business people during their lunch break. Sometimes we had an accompanying meal and sometimes not. Frankly, either seemed to work.
2. Plan communications.
Certainly, there should be an update to your church’s website. Most newcomers will check out your church’s website before they walk through your doors. Post and highlight your Easter service times online as early as possible and use all forms of social media. I always liked for Easter to have its own “branding” for marketing purposes.
