How Your Church Can Maximize the Summer Season
By America Kimlinger
It feels like just yesterday we were celebrating the start of 2025, making resolutions, and embracing new beginnings. The anticipation of summer felt like it stretched on forever, but now it has finally arrived! The sun is shining, vacations are planned, and the familiar routines of daily life have been disrupted as schools have closed for the season. Families are scrambling to adjust to new summer routines—our sons have only been out of school for two weeks, but honestly, it feels like two months! They’ve already powered through a full week of Boy Scouts summer camp, and we’re just getting started.
Summers are different—maybe even intense. They bring a sense of adventure, a break from the norm, and the chance to create lasting memories. However, for churches, the season also introduces unique opportunities and challenges.
As attendance patterns fluctuate, volunteers take well-deserved breaks, and ministries adjust to new dynamics, churches must be proactive in their approach to maintaining engagement. But don’t worry—with intentional planning and a few strategic adjustments; your church can not only navigate these months but thrive and offer something unique throughout the summer!
1. Plan for Attendance Swings
Some Sundays may feel emptier than usual during the summer, while others may see an influx of visitors. Studies show that church attendance drops by an average of 20% in the summer months, but almost half of those traveling say they would still engage with church content if available online. Consider:
- Encouraging members to stay engaged even when traveling by tuning into online services.
- Adjusting service schedules if necessary (e.g., combining services during lower-attendance weeks).
- Creating a welcoming experience for vacationing visitors by offering an easy way to connect and follow up.
2. Keep Your Volunteers Energized
Many volunteers take well-deserved summer vacations, which can leave gaps in key ministry areas, making early planning crucial. Avoid last-minute scrambles by:
- Checking in with volunteers early to confirm their summer availability.
- Recruiting and training backups so there’s always coverage for essential roles.
- Simplifying service structures on lighter Sundays to reduce strain on volunteers.
3. Embrace the Outdoors & Seasonal Fun
Summer is the perfect time to take advantage of the great outdoors! Consider hosting:
- Outdoor worship nights or services in a local park.
- Family-friendly events like church picnics, BBQs, or movie nights.
- A summer sermon series that ties into the season (e.g., themes of rest, renewal, or adventure in faith).
4. Stay Engaged with Families
With kids out of school and families traveling, it’s easy for engagement to dip. Keep families connected by:
- Offering summer kids’ programs, VBS, or church camps. Studies show that 80% of families are more likely to attend church events that include children’s programming.
- Sharing easy at-home devotionals or family Bible reading plans.
- Creating a “Church on the Go” kit with sermon notes, discussion questions, and a worship playlist.
5. Keep Giving Consistent
Many churches experience a financial dip in the summer as members travel. Research shows churches experience an average decline in assistance and giving during summer. Keep generosity flowing by:
- Encouraging automated online giving as a convenient way to stay consistent.
- Communicating how financial gifts support summer ministries and outreach.
6. Don’t Forget to Rest & Recharge
Just as summer is a time for vacations and rest, it’s also an opportunity for church staff and leadership to recharge. Prioritize:
- Scheduling intentional time off for pastors and team members.
- Encouraging a summer sabbatical or retreat for spiritual renewal.
- Trusting and empowering others to step up while key leaders rest.
Make This Summer Count!
As summer unfolds, churches have an incredible opportunity to lean into the season with creativity, flexibility, and intentionality. Whether through fun summer events or outreach efforts, your church can thrive even as schedules shift. So, take the time to strategize, communicate effectively, and create meaningful moments for your congregation. Whether attendance ebbs and flows or your team is working with a leaner crew, remember that summer is not a season to simply endure—it’s a time to embrace. With the right mindset and approach, your church can make a lasting impact and help individuals and families grow in their faith throughout the warmer months.
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