As we step into this final week of Lent, we reverently remember what Jesus experienced. First triumphant entry adulation, but then misunderstanding, false accusations, betrayal, blood sweating anguish, flesh ripping flogging, excruciating crucifixion and death. But because of all of this, we can now look forward to the life-changing joy of resurrection.
Today we stand on the threshold of one of the most significant moments of our church year. Resurrection Sunday is the church’s biggest day. Easter Sunday is our best attendance of the year, our Super Bowl. The question is, what will we do with the people who come?
Jesus has reminded us that new wine requires new wineskins (Luke 5:37–38). Easter is not just an event to host; it is a celebration of new wine being poured out. New people, new faith awakenings, new opportunities for transformation. And how we steward that moment will shape far more than one Sunday, it can influence the trajectory of the entire year.
I subscribe to the idea that your Easter attendance on this Sunday April 5, 2026, should be the goal for your church’s average weekly attendance by next Easter Sunday. So how do we get there?
Let’s be honest: excellence in preaching and worship matters, but what people often remember most is how they were received. Did someone see them? Did someone welcome them? Did someone communicate more than just a “Welcome to WAL-MART like greeting?
Pastor, are you going to do whatever it takes to help someone experience something special that will make them want to return next week? This is where new wineskins are needed.
Super hospitality is not a side ministry; it is frontline mission. This is the Sunday for an all-hands-on deck approach. Parking lots, front doors, lobbies, children’s areas, every space should communicate warmth, engagement, and care. Guests are gifts from God who should be “Welcomed with a Wow!”(the chapter title from my book Church Turnaround A to Z)
And what happens after Easter matters just as much as what happens on Easter. This is why I recommend you begin a new practical, need meeting series on Easter Sunday or at least preview it for the following Sunday start. Think about how the TV network that carries the Super Bowl uses it as a platform to promote its upcoming season of shows.
New wine cannot be left sitting. It must be stewarded. Timely, thoughtful follow-up is the difference between a guest and a returning potential disciple of Christ. A quick thanks for coming text, a handwritten note, an email invitation to the new series and an upcoming newcomer friendly event (I called ours ‘Pizza with the Pastor’)
These all serve as a bridge back and a clear pathway into community. These are all wineskins that hold what God is pouring out. Churches that follow up well don’t just count attendance, they build relationships, and relationships are what lead to ongoing participation.
Pastors, this is a moment to lead with intentionally. Prepare your people not just to celebrate Easter, but to receive people. Equip your teams not just to host, but to connect. Design your next steps not just for information, but for integration.
Because here’s the truth: A great Easter service may fill the room but great hospitality and follow-up fill the future. God is pouring out new wine across our churches. Lives are ready to be changed. The harvest is not theoretical; it is walking through our doors this Easter.
So let’s be ready with fresh wineskins.
Let’s welcome like it matters…because it does.
Let’s follow up like it matters…because it does.
And let’s trust that as we tend to this moment well, we will see not just a fruitful Sunday but also an abundant season ahead.
Jesus’ church deserves our best efforts because of all that He has done for us.
It’s Friday, but Super Sundays comin’.
Are you ready?
Your partner in ministry and mission,
Kyle