How to Invite Someone to Jesus Festival (Without Making It Awkward)

Most people will not come to a park because of a poster. They come because someone they trust said, “Come with me.” Jesus Festival is free. The hardest part is usually the ask.

Come and see.

Keep the invitation small

You are not recruiting them to a church program. You are offering two free days at Gage Park — worship, family space, food, and a city gathered around Jesus. If they say no, the relationship is still intact. If they say yes, you walk in together.

You are not recruiting them to a church program. You are offering two free days at Gage Park — worship, family space, food, and a city gathered around Jesus. If they say no, the relationship is still intact. If they say yes, you walk in together.

What to actually say

Neighbour or coworker: “There’s a free festival at Gage Park — a night of worship and a family day. Want to come with me?”

Family: “I’m going to Jesus Festival. I’d love you there — kids are welcome, no ticket, and we can leave whenever.”

Someone hurting: “You don’t have to believe anything to come. I just don’t want you to sit alone that day. I’ll stay with you.”

Text you can copy: “Jesus Festival is free at Gage Park — worship, food, and a family day. Come with me: https://www.loveontheworld.com/events”

Make it easy to say yes

Offer a ride or a meeting spot

“I’ll meet you at the Main Street entrance at 5:45” removes half the friction.

Name the day that fits them

Parents often choose Saturday. Friends looking for worship often choose Friday.

Tell them what it will feel like

Outdoor, all ages, food nearby, no pressure to participate. They can listen, walk, or stay.

Follow up once

A kind reminder the day before is love. A campaign of follow-ups is pressure.

Know the day and time before you ask, so the invitation is concrete rather than a vague “we should go sometime.” Current gatherings are always on the events page.

Know the day and time before you ask, so the invitation is concrete rather than a vague “we should go sometime.” Current gatherings are always on the events page.

If they say no

Thank them. Keep the door open. Pray for them by name. The invitation was still obedience. Some people need three honest asks across years, not one perfect weekend.

Thank them. Keep the door open. Pray for them by name. The invitation was still obedience. Some people need three honest asks across years, not one perfect weekend.

If you want the longer why behind a public festival, read Why a City Needs a Jesus Festival. Then bring one person.

If you want the longer why behind a public festival, read Why a City Needs a Jesus Festival. Then bring one person.