By Aaron Wilson
Your church likely sees more foot traffic on Easter than any other holiday.
Since some of these visitors may only visit church once or twice a year, it’s important to engage them in a meaningful way in the few hours you have with them.
Here are eight resources to help your church connect with Easter guests in a manner that will hopefully see them return the following week.
For adults
This accessible book communicates the simple but profound message that guests are welcome at your church.
Chapters like, “Not a Place for Perfect People” and “Come Make a Difference with Us,” are written in a conversational style that speaks directly to the reader.
Giving this book to your church guests is like inviting them to coffee after Easter service for a heart-to-heart conversation.
Chances are you’ll have skeptics visit your church on Easter.
The book “After Easter” introduces guests to Christian apologetics by providing a brief case for the historical reality of Jesus’ resurrection.
It also includes the full Gospel of John. By expounding on the certainty that He is risen, this short book makes a great gift for Easter guests.
Max Lucado’s newest book is a helpful resource for nominal Christians who may have a cursory attitude toward Jesus and the local church.
As readers examine the life and character of Jesus, they’ll become more familiar with the man at the center of the greatest story ever told and be encouraged to wrestle with His claims.
For guests hesitant to open a book, this collection of 12 songs centered on the cross may appeal to them as way to continue reflecting on the message of the gospel after Easter services are over.
Songs like, “In Christ Alone” and “How Deep the Father’s Love for Us” provide lyrics that draw listeners into a posture of worship. At $5, it makes a great gift to include in guests’ welcome bags.
For Kids
Each colorful egg hides an object lesson to help kids understand the life of Christ—from birth to resurrection.
This teaching aid makes for an interactive and easy-to-use lesson on Easter morning and can also be used in the home. An accompanying booklet explains the Easter story in English and Spanish.
This board book is perfect for toddlers and young children. Foil and textured elements on each page engage kids’ senses as they learn about the true message of Easter.
Fans of the “The Jesus Storybook Bible” will appreciate this story from Sally Lloyd-Jones based on Psalm 23.
It tells kids about God’s never stopping, never giving up, unbreaking, always-and-forever love. At $5, it makes an economical gift to visiting families with young kids.
What’s In the Bible DVD, Volume 10, Jesus is the Good News
This video series—created by VeggieTales creator Phil Vischer—takes kids through the entire Bible in a teaching format that includes puppets, animation, songs, and live action.
Volume 10, “Jesus is the Good News,” explores the 400 years between the Old and New Testaments and tells about the life of Jesus from the four Gospels.
It also includes an 11-minute gospel presentation. This elementary-aged resource is a great gift for children with video-driven learning styles.
Related:
- How Do Churches Actually Welcome Guests?
- Easter sparks online searches
- How to be mobile ready for Easter
- 8 tips for a great first impression
AARON WILSON (@AaronBWilson26) is associate editor for Facts & Trends.