Easter is Coming... and So are the Millennials

It is no secret that churches see their attendance swell on Easter Sunday.  Some of those folks are worshiping as part of a family gathering, but others might be visitors who are just looking for a place to worship on a day that they feel is sacred.  It is logical to think that some of those visitors might be young adults..  Experts tell us that many millennials are spiritual, even if they do not regularly attend worship.  In some cases they are drawn back to church on Easter because it is something they grew up doing.  So how do we prepare our church members, especially those who are part of the hospitality team, to welcome millennials? 

Do not hand them an information card:  Millennials are reluctant to share personal information until they feel comfortable.  Asking for an email address is not a good idea.  If they have a positive experience and feel their needs have been met, they will come back.  When they are ready, they will share relevant contact information.  

Focus on Gospel, not Law: While this might seem logical, it often is not the case.  We tend to want to remind once a year visitors that we around fifty-two Sundays a year.  We might even feel a sense of disdain toward those who only show up for festival services. That is not what millennials want to hear.  They view faith as a personal thing and might feel spiritual even if they are not attending a specific church on a regular basis.  Offer them a message of hope that is applicable to their situation.

Accept them for who they are: Some millennial visitors might not look like your typical church member.  They tend to dress casual.  Being dressed up might mean a new pair of jeans and collared shirt.  Body piercing and tattoos are acceptable among millennials.  Learn to live with that if you want them to come back.

Stay Traditional: Many millennials, especially those who grew up in the church, enjoy traditional liturgy.  That is especially the case on major festivals. Downplay the guitars and drums on Easter and Christmas.  

Do not expect them back next Sunday: Even if they have a great experience and feel comfortable, they probably are not going to become regular attenders.  The chances are slim that they are looking for a long-term relationship.  Rather they are looking for an accepting environment where their needs met.  When they have a crisis or need ministry, they will contact us if experience indicates they will be accepted unconditionally.

The bottom line is millennial are different.  We need to accept that and love them for who they are, not who we would like them to be.