Deck the Halls with Hospitality: Engaging Guests This Christmas

In This Episode:
We’re diving into the heart of hospitality during the Advent season, equipping church leaders with actionable strategies to make Christmas services a welcoming experience for all. Whether you’re a small church wondering how to get started or a large ministry looking to refine your guest engagement systems, this episode is packed with practical tips and fresh insights.

Key Takeaways:

1. Hospitality Begins Before Guests Walk Through the Door

  • “Visiting a church is an incredibly brave act. It shouldn’t take courage to come back for a second visit.”
    • Action Step: Ensure clear signage, a well-trained parking team, and greeters who know how to recognize returning guests.

2. Match the Energy of the Season

  • “If someone comes for a Christmas cantata, invite them to something that shares a similar vibe—like a Christmas Eve service—not a Good Friday tenebrae.”
    • Understand why guests are coming to your church, and invite them back for events that align with their expressed interests.
    • Action Step: Create bridge events—like a “Sunday Funday” or post-Christmas family gathering—that transition guests seamlessly into regular church life.

3. Focus on Connection, Not Just Greeting

  • “Lift the burden of bravery from your guests’ shoulders by ensuring they feel recognized and welcomed.”
    • Use systems like check-ins, follow-ups, and a consistent volunteer rotation to avoid awkward moments like asking a regular attendee, “Is this your first time?”

4. Start Where You Are

  • “Almost anyone can set up a welcome table with a volunteer or two. You don’t need a massive team to make an impact.”
    • A simple table with welcome bags or cards, manned by friendly faces, can go a long way in making guests feel cared for.
    • Pro Tip: Include an easy-to-remember visitor card or QR code to collect contact information.

5. The Power of Data Collection

  • “We’re not just a soap store asking for a phone number—we’re a center of care and community.”
    • Collect visitor contact info creatively and follow up with personal touches.
    • Action Step: Use this season to test innovative ways of gathering data, like NFC tags or QR codes linked to event invitations.

6. Photo Booths with a Purpose

  • “A simple Christmas-themed photo booth can turn a family moment into a powerful connection tool.”
    • Encourage attendees to use a branded hashtag when posting their pictures.
    • Next-Level Tip: Search the hashtag later and comment on posts to engage with visitors online.

7. Don’t Lose the Basics in Big Plans

  • “Don’t forget the basics. If you’re inviting guests, ensure there’s a way to track who they are and how to follow up.”
    • Even the best event won’t lead to lasting connections if you miss out on basic steps like visitor logs, welcome packets, or collecting emails.

Pro Tips for Christmas Services:

  • Welcome Table: Set up a seasonal welcome station with festive decorations, small gifts (like candy or ornaments), and church information.
  • Follow-Up Matters: Send personalized thank-you notes or invitations to upcoming events like New Year gatherings or family-focused activities.
  • Volunteer Short-Term Roles: Christmas often inspires people to step up. Ask a few key individuals to serve as greeters or table hosts for the season.
  • Hospitality Audit: Walk through your church as if you’re a first-time guest. Note anything confusing, unwelcoming, or awkward, and address it before Christmas.

Memorable Quotes:

  • “It’s not about competing with Disney—it’s about building relationships that Disney can’t.”
  • “Visitors shouldn’t feel like they belong despite us. They should feel like they belong because of us.”
  • “If they came for candy and family fun, invite them back to something that reflects those values—not just your normal Sunday service.”