There is never a wrong time for your church to practice a little bit of outreach, and what better way to spread the message than giving back to your local community and letting people know how much they mean to you? Fortunately, it’s easy to do. There are several DIY projects that will help you get everyone more involved in the community and invite new members to come and see what your church is all about. Here are some of the best ways to get creative and show those around you a little love.
Hire a photographer
Whether it’s spring, summer, fall, or winter, hire a photographer to take family portraits or just candid photos at a church event, such as a picnic or family fun day. If your town holds an annual festival, consider setting up a booth. Friends and family will enjoy the opportunity to get their picture taken, and you’ll get the chance to invite them to a church service and give them an opportunity to ask questions. Give families a pass to claim their photo online, or post the images on the church’s website or social media page to give everyone a chance to check them out.
Serve the community
Let the community know your congregation cares by holding a free car wash, dinner, or a fun run for charity. Invite everyone to take part and hand out printables letting them know you’re glad they came and inviting them to the next event.
Spread out
Rather than holding one big event at your church, consider organizing several smaller events at different locations in the community. This will make it easier for the elderly and people who can’t travel far to attend. Many apartment complexes have community rooms that can be rented out for a small fee, or you can rent a shelter space at a community park and host a cookout and some games for the kids. Pop-up events are also a great idea, such as setting up a doggie wash at the local dog park or handing out bottled water, Gatorade, or popsicles at a local hiking trail. Print up small invitations to hand out to maximize the impact.
Get dramatic
If you have a creative writer in your congregation, ask them to give their time to a worthy cause: writing a script for a play that will star members of the church. The choir can get involved, too, and you can make invitations on your computer to spread the word about the event. You can also organize a play starring only the youngest members of your church, which may help draw in family members who aren’t already members.
Prayer cards
Using printables online, create small prayer cards with room for a person’s name, and hand them out to members of the congregation. Ask them to pray for someone they know, write the name on the card, and have them use it as an invitation to come to a church service.