The biggest church attendance day of the year is just a few weeks away. Are you ready?

Easter is an ideal time to invite potential new members to your church. More Americans search for “church” online around Easter than at any other time, with the Christmas season usually ranking second, according to Google Trends data tracked between 2004 and 2013.

LifeWay Research conducted a poll in 2014 of 1,000 Protestant pastors asking for the three highest attended worship services throughout the year. The following holidays topped the list:

1. Easter (93%)
2. Christmas (84%)
3. Mother’s Day (59%)

You can’t deny the facts; Easter is a big draw for your church. Get your game plan ready and make your visitors and your long-time members feel welcome and part of your church family and in the know.

Here are 7 SMS marketing communication ideas for the Easter season:

Welcome Newcomers

Provide a special incentive for newcomers to opt in to your text messages (a special download on your church website, etc.)

Request Donations

Take up a special offering via text on Easter Sunday

Communicate With Specific Groups

Does your children's ministry or youth ministry have special Easter activities planned? Use text messages to update them on holiday events.

Announce Special Services

Many churches offer an additional sunrise service or additional regular Sunday morning service to accomodate crowds. Use text messaging to send reminders to your congregation of any weekend service changes.

Share Bible Verses

Consider launching an Easter week theme verse or devotion of the day that is shared via SMS.

Communicate Future Events

Chances are if someone visits your church at Easter and has a good (no great) experience, they'll want to return. Use text messaging to announce future sermon series, Bible studies, kids’ events, etc.

Take a Post-Easter Poll

Ask your congregation and visitors how they enjoyed this year's service and what changes they would make. Consider making a special landing page on your church website to poll your church community.

How is your church getting ready for Easter? Will you use text messaging as part of your Easter season communications plan?

For more idea on reigniting your church Easter outreach, visit our sister company blog.