Connection, meaning and purpose: 5 ways to ignite engagement this year

A new year brings fresh opportunities to engage your congregation and community more effectively. Especially if they’ve had less engagement and apathy after the interruption of Christmas and the New Year. People are looking for connection, meaning and purpose. Your church should be where they find it!

Here are five practical ways to increase engagement in 2025. For the sake of the gospel.

1. Simplify your church communication

If people are confused, they disengage. Make it easy for them to know what’s happening and why it matters to them. Instead of overwhelming your congregation with too many announcements, focus on the one or two “next steps” they should take each week. Use clear, action-driven language on stage, in emails, bulletins and social media. Segment your information based on demographics and their needs. Can’t do it all? Then only do what you can until you can do more. Excellence must go hand-in-hand with simplifying.

2. Use digital channels effectively

People interact with your church beyond Sunday. Your website, social media and email list are perfect opportunities to engage throughout the week. Update your website to ensure it’s search engine optimized, mobile-friendly and easy to navigate. Post relevant, encouraging content on social media; less about church events and more about how faith connects to their everyday life.

3. Enhance your worship experience

First-time visitors and returning members need a compelling reason to stay engaged. Audit your worship experience. Ask, how’s the flow? Is your messaging clear? Are new visitors welcomed intentionally? Ensure the service runs smoothly, feels personal and offers practical, biblical application. And yes, a warm, enthusiastic greeting team still matters. First impressions lead to lasting impressions.

4. Make serving the new normal

Engagement jumps when people do something. If you want people to stay connected, give them a purpose. Instead of asking, “Who wants to serve?” make serving the default expectation. Provide easy on-ramps for people to get involved, whether greeting, teaching kids, or local outreach. Highlight serving stories regularly to inspire participation. Be known for participation and changing things.

5. Create a culture of invitation

Engaged people bring others with them. Along with church advertising, equip your congregation to invite friends and family. Teach them how to extend a personal invitation, whether it’s for a Sunday service, small group, or community event. Make it as simple as, “Hey, would you join me?” and watch engagement grow.