Idea Starter: Draw Dog Lovers With an Animal-Friendly Service

Give dog owners a unique motive to come to church by inviting them to bring their pets with them. Check with your insurance carrier first regarding limitations on specific breeds, and require that all dogs be leashed. Provide a short service that includes a blessing of the pets. Underwood Hills Presbyterian Church in Omaha, Neb., attracted dozens of new people with a “Paws and Prayers” service, and other churches have experienced similar results.