We get it. Inviting a friend or family member to church can be uncomfortable, especially for a big holiday like Easter. But a few potential seconds of discomfort shouldn't keep us from offering someone an opportunity to meet and experience the love, power, and presence of Jesus this Easter. 

Before we start, a word to the wise: It's important to remember that not everyone has had positive church experiences. Let's be gentle in our invitation and discerning in our approach. We have the honor and privilege of "holding their hand" as some make their return to church. 

Alright, here are the five ways:

1. Grab a coffee, have a conversation

Who doesn't love a good conversation over coffee? Or tea, if that's how you roll. Plus, it's the classic pastor move. If you grew up in a church like ours, you know it well. Start with, "Wanna grab a coffee?" and you're off to the races. Once you sit down and catch up, mention Easter services at Alliance! Or, if your friend asks how you've been, share what you've experienced at Alliance over the last couple of months. 

2. Use those social platforms

Just a few swipes stand between your friend and an invite to church. Thanks to the digital age in which we live, we've made it easy for you to invite a friend to Easter services:

• Share this Easter Instagram post with a friend via direct message. And, if you're feelin' dangerous, add a personalized direct message when you share. Something like, "Hey! I'll be at the 8:30 a.m. service on Sunday morning. See you there?" goes a long way. 
• Respond to this Easter at Alliance Facebook event and share it to your profile! You can personally invite specific Facebook friends as well. 

3. The mailbox method 

Sure, physical mail is soooo 1992. But, hey, some offices still have mailboxes (including ours)! If you're inviting someone to our Easter services, grab a special Easter invite card in the Hub when you're here on Sunday. 

Simple. Nonconfrontational. Effective. Maybe 1992 isn't so old-fashioned after all. 

4. Optimize your Easter Sunday plans

Why does the invite have to stop with a church service? Invite them over for Easter dinner! Is there a young person who recently moved to the area? Give them a call. Is there an older widow in your neighborhood who may not have plans? Ask what her favorite Easter dish is and invite her over. 

This is a beautiful way to not only make Easter dinner special but also to practice hospitality. It's a win-win! 

5. And lastly, send a text 

23 billion texts are sent worldwide each day. That's 270,000 every second. Let's make one of those 270,000 about coming to Easter services. Here are some templates:

• The typical, Easter-themed invite: "Hey! My church has Easter services on April 16 and 17. Want to come to one with me? I'd love to have you there." 
• The direct option: "Easter at Alliance Church. April 16 and 17. Be there or be square."

Boom. Those are five ways. Super doable, super effective. We hope to see you and your friend during one of our Easter services in Appleton, Hortonville, or Online.