Christmas services often bring people through the doors who may only attend church once or twice a year. Instead of quietly judging them for their absence, worship leaders can use Christmas as an opportunity to engage them and invite them a little deeper.
First, challenge rather than condemn. Don’t assume people are unwilling to go deeper. Give them simple opportunities to participate, pray, or engage in worship in ways that may stretch them just a little.
Second, include familiar Christmas songs. Traditional carols give occasional attendees something they recognize and can immediately participate in. There’s plenty of room for newer Christmas worship songs too, but familiarity can help people feel welcome.
Third, introduce yourself. Don’t assume everyone knows who you are. A simple introduction helps turn the person on stage into someone they can connect with.
Fourth, invite people back. Christmas may be the only time some people attend, but they may simply have never been personally invited to return. Let them know they’re welcome to come back on a regular Sunday.
Finally, build relationships before and after the service. Make time to greet people as they arrive and talk with them as they leave. A personal connection can make a much bigger impression than anything said from the stage.
Christmas gives worship leaders a unique opportunity to welcome people who may not regularly attend church. Lead with that reality in mind, make people feel genuinely welcome, and give them an invitation to take another step.
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