After the energy of Advent and Christmas, January can feel quiet. Attendance may dip, inboxes are fuller than usual and online engagement often slows. Rather than viewing this as a setback, churches can see January as an invitation to reconnect with intention and care.
This season offers space to re-establish rhythms and remind people that church is a place of belonging, not just a holiday destination.
Start with a clear welcome
Use your website, email and social media channels to clearly say, "We are glad you are here." A simple, visible welcome message helps people feel noticed and valued, especially those returning after travel, weather disruptions or busy family schedules. Consider updating homepage banners, email headers or pinned social posts with warm, invitational language.
Name the season honestly
Acknowledge that routines shift after the holidays. Many people are tired, stretched thin or adjusting to new schedules. Grace-filled language resonates with those easing back into regular rhythms. Naming this reality builds trust and signals that your church understands the pace of real life.
Highlight what is coming next
Instead of overwhelming people with a long list of announcements, focus on one or two upcoming opportunities. Choose moments that emphasize connection, worship or spiritual growth. Whether it is a new sermon series, small group launch or service opportunity, clarity helps people know where to start.
Use multiple touchpoints
Not everyone engages in the same way. Some people read email carefully, others notice social posts, and some rely on in-worship announcements. Reinforce key messages across worship, email and digital channels so people can encounter the invitation more than once in ways that fit their habits.
Invite participation, not pressure
Frame engagement as an invitation into community rather than an obligation. Language that emphasizes curiosity, support and shared journey is more effective than reminders rooted in guilt. People are more likely to respond when they feel welcomed rather than measured.
Keep consistency visible
January is also a good time to maintain steady communication. Even small, consistent updates help people remember that the church is active and attentive. Consistency builds confidence and keeps connections warm during a quieter season.
Re-engagement is less about marketing and more about hospitality. January offers a meaningful opportunity to remind people they belong, that their presence matters and that there is space for them as a new year begins.
With over 20 years of experience across various media outlets, Renee McNeill has guided brands in crafting and executing effective strategies for both internal marketing and public-facing campaigns. As a specialist in social media and e-marketing, Renee is passionate about empowering churches worldwide to enhance their communications and marketing efforts.Renee is the producer of the MyCom brand, and can be reached at [email protected].