Another tech thing: We turned the auditorium into the woods by projecting on the walls, asking our guest services volunteers to dress up in camping attire, and playing campout noises rather than iTunes during preservice.
It was an experience. It was fun. And most importantly, it helped the content stick in the hearts of our congregation.
3. Don’t Take Yourself Too Seriously
I grew up in a season of the church where the pastor was so serious and untouchable. That season has come and gone. Today, approachable, genuine, and authentic dominate the honor culture of the past.
You can introduce an element of fun when you preach by not making yourself the hero of your own stories. You can laugh at funny things that happen in your community. You can find the lighter side of any aspect of life and bring a smile to your church.
Emotions break down barriers, and laughter and joy may be the greatest barrier-breakers to initially make church fun again. This is especially true for skeptics and the unchurched/dechurched people in your community.
4. Make Your Instagram Reels and Stories Fun
I talk a lot about how to best use each social media platform with purpose in the Rethink Your Church Model Masterclass. For now, know that Instagram (especially reels and stories) is where people not in your church go to check out your church. This is especially true for Millennials and Gen Z.
This is the perfect place to showcase what it means to make church fun again.
BTW, Jesus Seemed Funny, Too
I believe Jesus has a sense of humor, and if He is the head of the church, then it’s probably okay to have fun and laugh in His church. There are several moments in the Gospels where we are led to believe Jesus had fun, laughed, and even embraced sarcasm (see John 1, the calling of Nathaniel). At one point, he referenced having a “plank in the eye.” That’s funny!
Here is more proof. Just look at people. We are funny (most are even funny looking!). If Jesus was fully man, then he was fully funny. Therefore, I think our churches should reflect Jesus – all aspects of Jesus!
It wouldn’t surprise me to arrive in heaven and see Jesus telling jokes. “Did you hear the one about my Dad, the priest, and the Rabbi?” My point is simply this: I’m not sure why we believe the church must be devoid of humor and fun.
Just because it’s entertaining doesn’t mean it is unbiblical, lacking in truth, or godless. We could even argue removing laughter from the church is a poor strategy AND misrepresents Jesus. You can do it! You can make church fun again!
One more thought. When we see the church more as an expression of our relationship with God over a religious experience, our perspective on the church and its services shifts.
This article meant to make church fun again originally appeared here and is used by permission.
