by Linda Ann Nickerson

Created on: April 06, 2007   Last Updated: November 19, 2011

Why are churches more crowded on Easter than on any other Sunday?

Ask the CEOs!

What’s a CEO? To churchgoers, CEOs are the folks who come to worship on Christmas and Easter Only. Sanctuary pews are packed. Church parking lots overflow, and printed order-of-service programs run out on these two special days.

What draws people to church on Easter more than on other Sundays throughout the year? Here are nine reasons folks seem increasingly eager to attend on this high holy day of the annual Christian calendar.

1. Easter is fun.

Perhaps it's the renewed energy we all experience, as spring begins to appear. Days grow longer, and flowers begin popping out of the ground. Suddenly, we are all motivated to accomplish more in each day. On Easter Sunday morning, we wake up early to discover chocolate rabbits and jelly beans. Instead of sleeping in, we hop into the car and head off to services.

2. The Easter season brings out the best in holiday entertainment on television.

During the Lenten (pre-Easter) season, our cable TV programmers seem to adjust their schedule and re-run classic biblical epic movies. What Protestant or Catholic can watch “Ben Hur,” “The Robe” or even “The Ten Commandments” and not feel drawn to revisit his or her faith?

3. Families focus on faith at Easter time.

Clan traditions are revisited during the highest holy day of Christendom each year.

Are you going to Grandma's for Easter brunch?  Sitting with her in the pew may be a prerequisite. Aunt Katie has a solo, and Cousin Bob is reading the Scriptures. You might as well tag along! Besides, Uncle Jake has already ordered orchid corsages for all the ladies.

4. Fashions are festive for the Easter season.

All those fancy and frill spring clothes are festive and fun. Sure, Easter bonnets are no longer the rage, but sunny spring days beckon us to don bright garb and head for daylight. Easter services are a wonderful opportunity to do so.

5. Easter services pull out all the stops.

Fine arts are extra-special during the Easter season. Pageants, cantatas, and concerts are highlights of the happy holiday. Has a neighbor or relative offered you free tickets to an Easter program? Check it out!

6. Churches often offer free refreshments at Easter services.

Want a free cup of coffee and perhaps a sweet roll? Stop in the church lobby, when you visit on Easter Sunday.

For the children, Sunday school teachers are sure to bring donuts, or at least chocolate eggs,

• 1
• 2
• Next Page >>