Easter Sunday is a big deal! It’s one of the most attended Sundays of the year and an incredible opportunity to connect with new families. For many, this might be one of the few Sundays they step into a church all year. How you welcome them can make all the difference. A warm, fun, and thoughtful experience could turn a casual visit into the start of something life-changing. Here are some simple and practical ways to help new families feel right at home this Easter.
4 Ways to Welcome New Families to Church on Easter
1. Create an Inviting Experience
The experience starts long before families step through your doors. Here’s how to set the stage:
- Update Your Online Presence: Spruce up your website and social media with a friendly “What to Expect” guide for first-time visitors. Clear, welcoming information helps families feel prepared.
- Clear Signage: Ensure directional signs are easy to read and welcoming—no one likes feeling lost on their first visit.
- Warm Greetings: Station volunteers in the parking lot to greet families and guide them to the right spot. First impressions matter, and a friendly face makes all the difference.
- Streamlined Check-In: Make check-in simple, secure, and efficient. A “New Family Check-In” station with smiling volunteers and fun “First Day” stickers adds a personal touch.
- Personal Engagement: Train your team to engage with families authentically. Get on kids’ level and let them know they’re truly welcome.
2. Make it Fun for the Kids
Easter should be exciting—especially for kids! Create an environment that feels special and welcoming:
- Easter-Themed Activities: Provide fun items like stickers, coloring sheets, or small giveaways to make kids feel at ease.
- Quick Family Tours: Offer short tours so parents can see where their kids will be during the service. Building confidence is key to making families comfortable.
3. Go Beyond “Hi, Nice to Meet You”
Walking into a new church can be intimidating. Help your team go the extra mile with these tips to welcome new families to church:
- Meaningful Conversations: Train volunteers to ask open-ended questions like, “What brings you to church this Easter?” or “How old are your kids?”
- Intentional Connections: Assign volunteers to introduce new families to others with similar-aged kids or ministry leaders who can follow up later. These personal touches foster belonging.
A great free resource for your volunteers is A Kids Ministry Volunteer’s Guide to Easter. This simple, two-sided conversation guide made for volunteers can be a great companion as they prepare for both the expected – and unexpected – conversations they’ll be facilitating at church this Easter.Â
4. Follow Up Like a Pro
Don’t let Easter Sunday be the last time families hear from you! A thoughtful follow-up plan shows that you care:
- Timely Contact: Reach out within 48 hours. A simple, personalized postcard can leave a lasting impression. Bonus points if it’s handwritten by the Kids Pastor!
Bonus Idea: Host an Easter Jam
Looking for an extra way to create a welcoming space? Host an Easter Jam! This high-energy, interactive experience brings families together to celebrate Easter. Here’s what it includes:
- Engaging Storytelling: Share the message of Jesus’ resurrection in a fun, relatable way.
- Games, Music, and Laughter: Create shared memories that leave families excited to return.
- Family Connection: Partner with parents by creating an event that’s both entertaining and meaningful.
Easter Jam is a fantastic way to communicate the hope of Easter and show families that your church is a place to belong and grow in faith together. Did we mention this event kit is free? Download now to have an egg-cellent experience at your church for welcoming new families this Easter.
Here’s the Why
When you create a welcoming environment, fun experiences, and intentional connections, you’re helping families take their first step toward becoming part of your church community.
This Easter, let’s make it a day families will never forget—for all the right reasons. With a little intentionality and a lot of heart, you can help them see your church as a place where they belong. You’ve got this! Let’s roll out the red carpet and make Easter unforgettable.