Having been in children’s and youth ministry for many years now, I know how exciting this time of year can be as churches start thinking ahead to Easter.

I remember those times well. Sitting in meetings, dreaming of new and creative ways to link Jesus with an abundance of chocolate-themed activities and crafts (and, of course, rejoicing that creme eggs are now on sale again too!) But whilst Easter presents the perfect opportunity for engaging with the 95% of under 18s not in our churches, I believe we should be careful not to put all our eggs into one basket (pardon the pun.)

Being invitational

Children and young people are looking for consistency and integrity, and for people to care about them in between the special events. I know of many churches that were filled to the rafters with children over Christmas, and that’s so encouraging, but I’ve been astounded to see just how many of them didn’t have something else to invite them to come January. I firmly believe that we need to create an invitational culture in our churches, to help young people take steps towards faith that they so desperately need.

Yes, Easter might be the obvious next touchpoint with the young people in your community, but could it be more than that – part of a journey rather than a single destination? Scripture Union can help you with that.