How to Invite Someone to Church (Without It Feeling Awkward)

Inviting someone to church can feel intimidating. What if they say no? What if it gets awkward? What if they think you’re being pushy? These are all common fears, but inviting someone to church doesn’t have to be uncomfortable. In fact, it can be one of the most natural and loving things you do for someone. Here are a few ways to make the invitation easier and more effective.

1. Start with Prayer

Before inviting someone, pray for them. Ask God to open their heart and give you the right words. Prayer helps us approach invitations with love and sincerity rather than pressure or obligation.

2. Be Natural and Authentic

You don’t have to give a formal speech or have all the answers. Just be yourself! If church has been meaningful in your life, share that. A simple, "Hey, I’d love for you to come to church with me this Sunday. I think you’d really enjoy it," can go a long way.

3. Make It Personal

Think about the person you’re inviting. Do they have kids? Tell them about the children’s ministry. Do they love music? Mention how inspiring the worship is. Are they struggling with something? Share how church has encouraged you in tough times. A personal connection makes the invitation more meaningful.

4. Offer to Go Together

Walking into a new place alone can be overwhelming. Offer to sit with them, meet them outside, or even grab coffee before or after. Knowing they won’t be alone makes it much easier for them to say yes.

5. Use Church Events as a Bridge

Sometimes, a Sunday morning service might feel like a big step. Instead, invite them to something more casual, like a post-service gathering—maybe a donut and coffee hangout, a chili cookoff, or another fun event your church hosts. These relaxed settings make it easier for newcomers to meet people and feel comfortable. You can also invite them to a community outreach event, which provides a great way to connect while making a difference together.

6. Respect Their Response

Not everyone will say yes, and that’s okay. If they decline, don’t take it personally. Keep the relationship strong, continue to pray, and trust that God is working in their life. A "no" today doesn’t mean "no" forever.

7. Keep the Invitation Open

If they don’t come this time, let them know the invitation is always open. Sometimes, people need multiple invitations before they’re ready to take that step. Keep loving them, keep being a light, and trust that God is moving in their life.

Inviting someone to church isn’t about selling something—it’s about sharing something that has made a difference in your life. So go ahead, step out in faith, and extend the invitation. You never know how God might use it!