How people are invited makes a big difference to who comes, and how welcome they feel.
Many On The Way groups during the pilot phase found that personal, thoughtful invitations were far more effective than general announcements alone. This section offers a range of ways to invite people, so you can choose what best fits your context.
Start with relationships
Personal invitation is the most effective way to invite people to On The Way.
You might:
- ring or speak with people on the church’s Community Roll
- approach people you already know are asking faith‑related questions
- invite people who are newer to church life, or loosely connected
When inviting someone personally:
- keep it simple and warm
- avoid pressure or expectation
- be clear that this is a space for exploration, not an exam or commitment
For example:
“A few of us are going to explore faith together using a short course called On The Way. It’s relaxed and open, and I wondered if it might be something you’d like to try.”
Encourage people to invite others
People are more likely to say yes to an invitation from someone they trust.
Encourage members of the congregation to:
- invite friends, neighbours, family members or colleagues
- share the invitation with people who may not usually attend church
- invite people one‑to‑one, rather than forwarding a general message
It can help to remind people that inviting is not the same as persuading. The aim is to offer an opportunity, not to convince.
Use visible and welcoming publicity
General publicity can support personal invitation and help people feel that On The Way is open to them.
You might:
- display posters in places people naturally pass through
- share information on church websites and social media, including the promotional video.
- include a short, friendly notice in newsletters or email updates
Keep publicity:
- clear and uncluttered
- welcoming rather than technical
- focused on invitation, not explanation
Be clear about what to expect
People are more likely to join when they know what they are saying yes to.
Where possible, include:
- when and where the group will meet
- how long sessions last
- reassurance that no prior knowledge is needed
You may also want to say explicitly that:
- questions are welcome
- no one will be put on the spot
- people are free to attend without pressure
Clarity builds confidence – especially for those who are unsure or new.
Hold the invitation lightly
Not everyone you invite will say yes, and that is okay.
Trust that God is already at work in people’s lives. Your role is to offer the invitation with openness and kindness, and to create a space ready for those who come.