‘Tis the season of gifting and gathering, where visitors, volunteers, and ministry efforts surge, often dividing our attention between our families at home and our church community. Amidst the hustle, we might overlook the significance of those joining us during this time. Here are some thoughtful ideas to ensure everyone feels welcomed and uplifted during this festive season:

Books and Books on Tape

Does your pastor have a favorite author? Maybe there is a great devotional that your staff uses or a book club that meets regularly.  These gifts can convey the essence of your church’s ethos and character, surpassing what a website or service might communicate.  Plus, you can add in a beautifully crafted bookmark with your church’s mission statement, doctrine or verse to solidify who you are to you visitor.

Branded Notebooks

Do you want your visitor to leave with notes from the message and remember where these notes came from? There are pens galore at many churches but, with the disappearing of printed bulletins, there isn’t always a space to take a quick note or two.  We suggest that you get a branded stamp or branded notebook to give your visitors as they settle in so they can remember the message and your church.  Make sure you include a card on how they can get in touch after!

Homemade, Local Candles, Soaps, and Lotions

There is no better way to acknowledge your community than with your support of small businesses, especially in the holiday season. When you reach out to a local business, you not only showcases the uniqueness of your community but also extend a caring gesture to your visitors in style.

Donations to a Local Charity

Show the generous nature of Jesus and gift a donation in the name of your visitor to a local charity.  To up the ante, give your visitor a choice of where their donation will go. This is a great way to strike up a conversation and create memorable moments with relationship building over coffee and donuts after service.  Make sure you have a dedicated staff member or volunteer that is stationed at a well marked spot after the service to receive any visitors that approach!

These simple yet impactful ideas can be readily implemented during the Christmas season, easing the strain on your attention. Have you tried other successful approaches in your church during this time?Share them in our community!