I don’t know one church planter who dreams of investing their time, money, and lives so the church can stagnate and eventually close their doors. But how do you reach people in the community who might not even know you exist? Enter the power of “Big Days” – strategic outreach events built around major holidays. These aren’t just marketing tools; they’re opportunities to build genuine relationships, share your message in a relevant way, and invite people to explore faith in a welcoming environment.
Here’s a look at some key “Big Days” throughout the year:
April: Welcoming First Time Guests (Easter)
Easter is the heart of the Christian faith, and it’s the perfect time to invite people to experience the joy of the resurrection. Brainstorm events that celebrate the holiday and give first-time guests a taste of your church’s worship style and message.
Easter Outreach Ideas:
“Crack the Code” Easter Egg Hunt:
Instead of traditional Easter eggs filled with candy, create “code eggs” with cryptic messages or riddles inside. Participants need to work together to decipher the codes, leading them to a hidden prize and a deeper understanding of the Easter story.
“He is Risen” Chalk Art Competition:
Hold a chalk art competition on the sidewalks around your church. Participants can create artwork depicting their interpretation of the Easter story. Offer prizes for the most creative and impactful pieces.
“Rise & Shine” Coffee Cart:
On Easter morning, set up a mobile coffee cart outside your church or in a busy area. Offer free coffee and pastries, along with a friendly greeting and a short message about hope and new beginnings.
May: Showing Love in Your Community (Mother’s Day)
Mother’s Day is a time to celebrate the incredible women in our lives. Your church plant is only limited by your imagination.. Think of events that allow you to connect with families, showcase your warm atmosphere, and subtly share the message of love and care that’s central to your faith.
Mother’s Day Outreach Ideas:
Mom’s Gratitude Wall:
Set up a large wall where people can write messages of gratitude for the mothers in their lives. This could be displayed at your church or in a public space in the community.
Living Portraits:
Organize a living portrait photo shoot where mothers can recreate famous paintings depicting motherhood. This creates a unique and artistic way to celebrate mothers and their roles.
October: Celebrating Community with a Twist (Halloween).
Halloween can be a tricky one for churches, but it’s also a prime opportunity to engage with families. Instead of shying away, try a “Harvest Festival” with carnival games, a costume contest (with non-scary categories!), and a fall harvest feast. This provides a safe and fun alternative for families while subtly introducing your church’s values. Remember to train your volunteers to engage with people. If they don’t engage, you put on an event, but I wouldn’t consider it an outreach.
Halloween Outreach Ideas:
Pumpkin Decorating Contest (Christian Themes):
Host a pumpkin decorating contest but with a twist! Encourage participants to create pumpkins depicting Bible stories, Christian symbols, or inspirational messages. Provide prizes for the most creative and impactful designs.
“Not-So-Scary Scavenger Hunt”:
Organize a Halloween-themed scavenger hunt around your church or neighborhood. Instead of spooky elements, incorporate clues and riddles related to Bible stories or messages of kindness and compassion. This offers a fun activity for families while subtly introducing them to your church’s values.
Glow-in-the-Dark Games with a Message:
Host a series of glow-in-the-dark games like ring toss or bowling. Incorporate short Bible verses or inspirational messages into the games, creating a unique way to share your message while offering a fun activity for families.
December: Spread Joy and Build Bridges (Christmas)
Christmas is a season of giving, and your church plant can be a beacon of generosity. Host a toy drive for underprivileged children, partner with a local shelter to provide Christmas meals, or organize a caroling night in your neighborhood. These events spread holiday cheer and showcase your church’s commitment to serving others.
Christmas Outreach Ideas:
The Giving Manger:
Set up a large manger scene at your church and invite the community to participate in a “giving manger” project. Encourage people to donate non-perishable food items, toys, or new clothing, placing them in the manger as a symbolic representation of the gift-giving spirit of Christmas.
The Christmas Escape Room Challenge:
Create a Christmas-themed escape room experience at your church. Participants must work together to solve puzzles and challenges related to the Christmas story within a time limit. This offers a unique and interactive way to learn about the nativity while fostering teamwork and problem-solving skills.
Follow-up is vital!
Remember, “Big Days” are just the beginning. Be intentional about follow-up. Have volunteers collect contact information and invite people to your church services.
By strategically using these Big Days, your church plant can become a vital part of your community, building relationships and inviting people to explore a deeper connection with God.
