Time is taxing on today's families. Kids are involved in school activities, sports leagues, and homework deadlines. Where does this leave time for Wednesday Nights?
Many churches offer Wednesday Night services, and understandably this time of worship produces lower numbers than traditional Sunday services. One of the problems that arises as a lack of Wednesday Night family participation is that children spend 30 hours in school each week, but only 1 hour in Sunday School each week. To parents who are truly interested in helping their children walk in their faith on a daily basis, 1 hour a week just does not seem like enough to invest in worship.
Here are some suggestions for upping family participation in Wednesday Night services at your church.
Family Scheduling
Families committed to raising their children in a Christian environment should be scheduling Wednesday Night worship as if it were as important as scheduling in soccer or cheerleading practice. There is no substitute for spending more time in worship. It is not an extracurricular activity, but a way of life. Making sure that Wednesday Night services are a top priority in your family life sends a bold message to your child how important it is to be in God's Word whenever possible.
Relaxed Environment
Offering a relaxed environment on Wednesday Nights could very likely attract families to attend more often. We wear our Sunday-best at traditional services, but promote Wednesday Nights as a laid back, casual time of worship, and folks might be excited about attending. Just because the clothing is relaxed, does not mean the message has to be. Keep services bold and uplifting.
Class Rotations
Instead of a service, why not offer a rotation of classes. Families might enjoy the change of pace and be excited to be part of a small group class rather than sitting in the sanctuary. Classes can be geared for families on subjects such as family devotions or family prayer life. Other classes can be tailored to learning about spiritual gifts, other world religions, or how to become more involved in your own church committees. You just need willing teachers and a great curriculum.
Children's Focus
To make coming to church on Wednesday Nights more enticing to children, offer a 30-minute Bible Study in age-appropriate divisions and then a 30-minute time of sports or crafts. Let children choose if they want to play sports in the gym or just hang out with friends and make crafts. Knowing that they have a choice makes the time spent more exciting and meaningful.
Wednesday Night Supper
Everyone likes to get together and eat! Offer a meal on this night before the worship time begins. Families can pay upfront or on a weekly basis for participating in the dinner. This time of fellowship is a great way to gear up for an exciting evening of delving into God's Word. And, it gives families something to look forward to, as a time of eating out. Kids especially look forward to Wednesday Night suppers.
Give the families of your church every opportunity to congregate and have meaningful times of worship, including Wednesday Nights. If even one or two new families come out to participate, it is worth the effort and extra planning to offer exciting programs. God bless!
