10 Tips to Help Your Parish Prepare for Easter

For many parishes, Easter is one of the most meaningful celebrations of the year. Months of preparation lead to this holy weekend, and each year, your team works tirelessly to make it a beautiful and impactful experience for everyone.

Why? Because Easter draws the largest attendance of the year. Non-practicing Catholics and those curious about the faith often attend with family and friends. Parishioners who come only occasionally make it a priority. And those who regularly attend will almost certainly be present on Easter.

Whether you’ve been in parish ministry for years or this is your first Easter, there are always ways to enhance your preparations. Here are 10 actionable steps to help you create a welcoming Easter celebration.

1. Recruit temporary volunteers

Easter requires extra hands. Larger congregations mean increased needs across ministries. Additional children’s ministry volunteers can help manage the influx of young attendees. Parking attendants can assist with the overflow of cars. Ushers may need extra support to guide parishioners to their seats.

Start early to build your team. Many people are more willing to help if they know it’s a short-term commitment. Emphasize the importance of their contributions, and try to match volunteers to roles that suit their skills. Volunteers are the backbone of a smooth and welcoming Easter celebration.

2. Promote Easter mass on social media

Social media is a powerful tool for reaching your community. Use it to share your parish’s message and invite others to attend.

Post reflections on the Resurrection, a message from your priest, or highlights of what makes your Easter celebrations unique. Include Mass times, special events for children, or opportunities for confession.

Start your social media campaign several weeks before Easter and keep the momentum going. On Easter Sunday, consider live streaming your service or sharing photos to engage those who couldn’t attend in person.

3. Encourage parishioners to invite others

Easter is the perfect time for personal invitations. Encourage parishioners to invite friends and family, especially those who might not regularly attend Mass.

Provide invitation cards they can share, or use email and social media to remind them of the importance of welcoming others to celebrate Easter at your parish.

4. Create a welcoming atmosphere

With an influx of visitors, it’s essential to create a warm and inviting environment. Hospitality begins with your parishioners. Remind them they represent the parish and encourage them to greet newcomers with kindness.

Consider a “5-foot rule,” where parishioners introduce themselves to anyone nearby who isn’t already engaged in conversation. While your hospitality team leads the way, everyone can contribute to creating a welcoming atmosphere.

5. Address parking challenges

Easter attendance often outstrips parking capacity. Look for nearby options, and consider arranging a shuttle service if needed. Encourage regular parishioners to park farther away to leave closer spaces for visitors. Clear signage and volunteer assistance can make parking more manageable.

6. Plan follow-ups for visitors

Easter brings many first-time or infrequent attendees. A thoughtful follow-up can encourage them to return.

Create a welcome packet or send a thank-you email with information about your parish. Highlight ways they can get involved, such as small groups, upcoming events, or opportunities for spiritual growth.

7. Check technology in advance

Technical issues can be distracting during liturgies. Test microphones, live stream equipment, and other systems ahead of time. If anything has been unreliable, address it now.

Easter is also a time of increased generosity, so make sure your online giving platform is ready for a potential increase in donations.

8. Upgrade refreshments

If you offer refreshments, consider making them extra special for Easter. Good coffee or seasonal treats can create a positive impression and make visitors feel appreciated.

9. Update your website

Your website is often the first place visitors look for information. Make sure Mass times, location details, and special instructions like parking are easy to find.

If your parish has an app, encourage attendees to download it to stay connected after Easter. Use features like digital connect cards or event notifications to engage them further.

10. Pray

Above all, rely on prayer. Pray for those who will attend your Easter liturgies, that their hearts will be open to the message of the Resurrection. Pray for your volunteers and staff as they take on extra responsibilities. And pray for your parish, that it may glorify God and share His love this Easter.

Prepare for a your Easter celebration

Easter is a time to rejoice in Christ’s Resurrection and an opportunity to invite others into the faith. Thoughtful preparations can help create a meaningful experience for everyone who enters your parish.

Gather your team, reflect on past successes, and explore new ways to enhance your celebrations. May your Easter be filled with joy!