INVITE

We all know why we should ask people to our church. Don't we?

As pastors and leaders, we may know why we should ask people; but have we educated our congregation? Have we reminded them recently? Well now is a great time!
Of course, there are many reasons to invite others to church, but try narrowing down the reasons to help drive home the points with your congregation.

• At this time of year, people are already flush with the "Christmas Spirit" and already out of their normal routines. When we get out of our normal day-to-day routine, we are naturally more open to new things.
• Christmas is, by nature, a spiritual event. With more people flocking to churches, people are curious. "What's all the hype about?" People want to know what's happening, just like the shepherds - "Let's go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened..."
• Many people are in desperate need of some good news and great joy. People are surrounded by staggering circumstances and Christmastime can even compound the situation. The story of Jesus, His birth, life, death, and resurrection is the one story that can bring light into their lives.

Your invitation can be the lift out of desperation that leads people to meet Jesus! At the very least, it can be a break from all the shopping and Hallmark Christmas movies; plus one more step in a closer relationship with those you invite.

December 8th - 2 Weeks Out

It's time to get everyone involved. Mobilize your biggest asset - your congregation.

Here are a few items to be working on this week.

• Preach/Teach/Promo about the importance of inviting friends, family, co-workers, and neighbors.
  • Studies show 82% of unchurched people you know would attend a church service if invited (Lifeway Research).
• Hand out Themed Christmas Invite Cards.
  • As you preach about the value of inviting others to your Christmas services, hand out your invitation cards to equip your congregation with an easy ice-breaking tool.
• Time to canvas your neighborhoods with door knockers.
  • One side should feature service times and location information
  • The other side communicates special features for the services.
• Your EDDM mailing should hit the P.O. this week.
  • Check with your mailing partner to be sure they are sending your Every Door Direct Mail piece to the Post Office this week.
• Hand out your Series Information Card.
  • We often use the theme card as an events calendar of sorts with all the special services, dates, and times. It can also double as a handout card.