We’re in the heat of summer, but fall is coming quick. The next season is always just around the corner in church communication. So let’s explore some tips to help you be prepared for the fall kickoff:
- Start sooner: If fall is coming down upon you too quickly, the best thing you can do is start sooner. OK, now that’s not helpful. True, it’s not helpful for this fall. But if you’re always feeling behind the eight ball, it’s time to start planning earlier. It may be too late for fall, but it’s not too late for Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter—whatever’s next. The only way to get ahead is to start on what’s next. No time like the present. “By making a plan, it is easier to communicate to all (internally and externally) the flow of the season and how/why ministries are working together to meet the needs of our church and/or community,” says Rebecca Llenos.
- Do less: “We offer way too much and do too many events!” says Sandy Hughes. “I’d love to see us narrow what we do according to our vision and core values.” Sound familiar? Instead of trying to be all things to all people, try doing a few things really well.
- Dream: OK, this sounds contradictory with doing less, but sometimes your church needs to dream. “This fall, we will also take an adventure into neighboring,” says Charla Wilkerson. “Our dream is to better reach our neighborhood, both the church’s neighborhood and our individual neighborhoods.”
- Welcome people: “Fall kickoff is important because it seems like everyone is resetting their rhythms and routines after summer,” says Sarah Murry. “If you’re going to add something new to your routine like church attendance/involvement, what better time than the fall when things are re-starting?” The fall is a good time to encourage your congregation to invite friends to church and then welcome all people into Bible studies and small groups.
- Recharge now: The fall season can be a high-speed ride. So make sure you’re taking care of yourself, whether that means resting up now or planning a mid-fall break. “It sounds silly but an hour every month for a manicure and pedicure—just to not think about anything,” says Christy Farrell. (Doesn’t sound silly at all.)
More:
- Check out our free fall resource, Communicating Fall Without Creating Noise, for more help gearing up for the fall season.
