Invite Historical Guests

• People who have been influential in the church's history but are not currently attending the church should be invited back for the celebration. The church's age will affect what type of historical guests can be present. For a 20th anniversary, invite all of the people who were present at the church's first Sunday service. If the celebration is 50 years, invite the first couple to get married in the church. For a 75-year anniversary, invite the first baby who was baptized there. If the church is even older, consider inviting all the recent senior pastors.
  
  

Present Church History

• One element of the anniversary service can be to present an updated version of the church's history. Congregation members who are not familiar with the church's roots and its changes over the years may appreciate realizing how they are part of a bigger picture. If the church already has a recorded history, it should be updated to reflect the years since the previous anniversary. Print a timeline or an abbreviated version to distribute to attendees. In addition, gather photos of the church and congregation over the years and present a slideshow at the celebration.
  
  

Include Food

• Food builds community and encourages people to stay after the church service. If there is enough money, the church can provide lunch. Another idea is to sell tickets for a special anniversary lunch or dinner in advance. For a casual meal, organize a potluck lunch. Another simple idea is to invite members to stay after the church service for a celebration that involves a large sheet cake. Encourage guests to mingle and talk about their time with the congregation as they eat.
  
  

Organize Prayer Chain

• Hold a prayer chain before the anniversary service so people can pray for the church as it steps into the coming years. Plan the chain so it devotes one hour of prayer for every year in the church's history. For a 100-year anniversary, this would last over four days. Set up a distinct location for the prayer chain and have the congregation sign up for half-hour slots in that space.