Word Count: 449 – Est Read Time: <2 Minutes
What’s New: Many churches discovered their Christmas Eve services didn’t draw the crowd like they used to.
So What: If your numbers didn’t meet expectations, you’re not alone. But staying stuck in tradition for tradition’s sake won’t turn things around. Visitors and even your members expect more, and it’s up you to deliver.
The Points for Next Year:
- Tradition Has Its Limits: Relying on “what we’ve always done” will only resonate with those already sold on tradition. Your neighbors aren’t in that camp. They’re looking for connection, not a recital of rituals.
- WII FM (“What’s In It For Me?”): Did your service address your visitor’s needs, hopes, and questions? Or was it a pageant more concerned with impressing the “insiders”? Ask yourself: “Why would a non-member care about this?” If you can’t answer that, it’s time to revamp.
- Get Their Contact Info: If you didn’t collect visitor information, you lost your best chance to follow up. Make it easy and non-threatening. A welcome card with a small gift? A Christmas Eve door prize drawing? A QR code linking to a quick survey? The options are endless.
- Follow-Up Is Non-Negotiable: Visitors need a reason to come back. A personalized email, a hand-written note, or an invite to a family event within the next week. Your follow-up is your first impression, round two.
- Word of Mouth Isn’t Enough: Did you rely solely on members to spread the word? That’s a rookie mistake. Next year, start a social media campaign, hit the local event calendars, and maybe even try a Facebook ad targeted at your community.
And … ?
Let’s face it, churches have a habit of confusing sentimentality with strategy. A candlelight service with “Silent Night” is nice, but if that’s the whole draw, you missed the mark. The unchurched are hungry for meaning and hope, not just a Hallmark moment. So what did your service offer them? Did it address their deep yearning for peace and purpose, or did it preach to the choir (literally and figuratively)?
Next, consider your post-service game plan – for next year and next week! Visitor retention isn’t magic; it’s math and messaging. Those who felt seen and valued are exponentially more likely to return. If you gathered their contact info, your follow-up should create a bridge from Christmas nostalgia to life-changing community. And if your follow-up plan was just a “Thanks for coming!” email … don’t expect many to stick around. Churches that grow are the ones that care enough to chase.
Action! Grab a copy of the Keep Your Visitors Training and get the tools you need to turn visitors into returning guests.
