How to Start a Christian Outreach
Any time you attempt to minister in a community, you must first know the community, its people and its needs. For instance, an outreach to young athletes would not be needed in a community of retirees, but one to grandparents might be. Likewise, the young athlete outreach would probably be well received near a high school or college. Reaching out means serving. In short, the best advice is to find a hole and fill it.
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Things You'll Need
- Facility or church to house the outreach
- Governing body
- Like-minded group of people
- Resources as needed
Instructions
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Gather your group weekly to meet for prayer. This way, you will be less compelled to rely on your own strength and do things your own way. Submit your desire to create an outreach to a higher authority by asking God's direction for it.
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Ask yourself how you and your group can be Jesus in skin to your target group. Remember that for all Christian outreaches, the primary objective is to share the love of Christ and draw the unsaved into a relationship with Him.
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Serve your target group where it is; people will become acquainted with you on their turf, in familiar surroundings. Free hot chocolate in the parking lot sends a great message to Christmas shoppers. Cold lemonade on a hot day is also welcome.You may offer free yard work, or snow shoveling. Let people know you are giving to them because the love of Jesus is free.
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On a second visit to your target area, hand out flyers inviting people to your church for a free event. The event could be a free car wash or a cookout with face painting and music. Either event will require a fair amount of planning and some financial obligation.
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Go to your pastor or church governing board to find out how to raise money for the outreach. The church may make a financial contribution. Some churches allow bingo or a silent auction, some do not. Follow the rules of your governing body to raise money.
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Hold an event. Be inviting and warm, you may be the only Jesus the people you are serving have ever seen. They will be watching you closely.
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As a group, evaluate your work after every outreach. Be prepared to change your design to fit your target area or group.
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Tips & Warnings
It is important that you conduct all your business under the supervision of a governing organization, probably your church. It will provide an umbrella of protection for your outreach, as well as a place where those you are serving can come to you. Also, keep in mind that people are skeptical of free things. An unchurched group will be waiting for the catch. It may take a substantial amount of time and several events to build their trust. Some may never want any more than a free handout. It doesn't matter, because your group is responsible for its involvement and God is responsible for His.
No one should go into an unfamiliar area alone. If your group is giving out free lemonade or flyers, go in groups of two or three and keep in touch with other group members by cell phone.
