Easter is just over two weeks away, and that means our churches will be seeing an influx of members who attend only occasionally as well as seekers — people from the wider community who want to participate in the joy of the Resurrection and at the same time check whether the UCC branch of the Christian movement might be a good fit.
For Wisconsin Conference congregations, there is no better time to tell your story to your local community. That’s why the Conference created the Identity Campaign Toolkit, an evolving set of resources designed to provide practical help to local churches. Here are some ways to begin to put the toolkit to good long-term use:
- Church councils or leadership teams might start with the section called “Reflections for Leaders,” which are designed for group use. Try one per council meeting.
- Share with your congregation Conference Minister Franz Rigert’s essay titled “Do One Thing Well,” which explores how small congregations can thrive by focusing on a single high-impact ministry. What’s the “one thing” of your congregation? Could a Catalyst Grant from the Conference help you do that in a better or bigger way in your community?
- Tap the worship section of the toolkit for practical sermon and prayer resources that can help pastors talk to the congregation about evangelism.
- Adapt the Conference logo, with its “Where God Is Still Speaking” tagline, for your church’s use. Contact Nola Risse-Connolly of the Conference staff with questions.
And here are some tips for getting the word out about your congregation’s observance of Holy Week and Easter:
- Take advantage of free media by reaching out to local media organizations with your Holy Week and Easter service times. They might appear as small news items in print or be turned into public service announcements by the local radio station.
- Consider buying an advertisement in your local newspaper or online news organization. As whether the organization offers a special church or nonprofit rate.
- Make the most of your congregation’s social media presence. What about posting a daily reflection each day of Holy Week? (You could even repurpose the daily reflections published by the UCC.) Post service times early in the week and special reminders on Maundy Thursday and Good Friday. And engage with social media visitors who have questions or leave comments.
- Take lots of photos. Holy Week and Easter often provide opportunities for beautiful visuals. Does your congregation process around the block with palms on Palm Sunday? Does your Maundy Thursday service include foot-washing? Post a photo or two to social media to show your community how your congregation marks these landmark events.
Download the Identity Campaign Toolkit.