How Churches Can Host Family Outreaches in the Summer

The final and sobering words spoken by actor and singer David Cassidy (according to his daughter, Katie Cassidy) were, “So much wasted time.” I couldn’t help but wonder what he meant. For me, my precious time is least wasted when I’m reaching out to the lost. And may I add that your ministry time as a pastor is best used when you lead your flock in outreaches to the unsaved. This was the focal point of Jesus’ ministry of Jesus as He constantly led His staff—the apostles—in outreaches to the lost. That’s the reason He came: 

“…for the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost” (Luke 19:10). 

Here are ten practical ways you can do that this summer. Remember not to call these outreaches “evangelism,” because that’s a word that terrifies most Christians. The following endeavors therefore have more appealing names: 

1. Family Fun Days (outreach to families) 

Activities: Organize a day filled with games, free food, great music, and other entertainment. There are bound to be volunteers in your church who would gladly dress up as a clown and give away gospel tracts, candy, and balloons with Bible verses in them. Livingwaters.com has amazingly creative tracts—such as “101 of the World’s Best One-liners.”

Tips: Include activities for all age groups, from face painting and bouncy castles for kids and BBQ for adults. And make sure you have a designated time for a brief, engaging gospel message.

2. Vacation Bible School 

Activities: A week-long event with themed Bible lessons, crafts, songs, and outdoor activities.

Tips: Choose an engaging theme that appeals to children and their families. Ensure there are take-home materials that encourage families to discuss the lessons together.

3. Outdoor Movie Nights

Activities: Set up a large screen and show family-friendly movies with a Christian message or themes.

Tips: Provide free snacks and refreshments and consider starting the evening with a short devotional or prayer.

4. Community Service Projects

Activities: Organize service projects like cleaning up parks, helping with home repairs, or running a food drive.

Tips: Use these opportunities to demonstrate God’s love through action. Begin or end with a prayer and a short message explaining why you serve.

5. Family Sports Tournaments

Activities: Host tournaments for different sports like soccer, softball, or basketball at a local park.

Tips: Make it a community event by inviting local teams and organizations. Include a short gospel message during halftime or breaks.

6. Family Picnic

Activities: Organize a picnic with live worship music, testimonies, and a gospel message.

Tips: Encourage families to bring their own picnic baskets and provide some communal games and activities.

7. Family Talent Show

Activities: Invite families to participate in a talent show with singing, dancing, skits, and other talents.

Tips: Use this as a platform to share personal testimonies and gospel messages between acts.

8. Parenting and Marriage Workshops

Activities: Host workshops focusing on Christian parenting and marriage principles.

Tips: Provide childcare and activities for kids so parents can fully engage in the workshops. Host a free dinner. 

9. Neighborhood Block Parties

Activities: Close off a street and have a block party with food, music, and games.

Tips: Use this casual setting to build relationships and naturally share the gospel through conversations.

10. Concerts and Music Festivals

Activities: Host concerts with local Christian bands or worship teams.

Tips: Include moments where pastors or church members share testimonies and gospel messages.

Planning and Promotion Tips

• Team Effort: Form a planning committee from your church to organize and execute the events.
• Promotion: Use flyers, social media, local radio, and partnerships with local businesses to promote your events.
• Follow-Up: Have a plan for following up with attendees, such as inviting them to Sunday services or small groups.
• Prayer: Bathe the planning and execution of each event in prayer, asking God to guide your efforts and touch the hearts of attendees.

©2024 Ray Comfort. Used with permission.