On Monday, April 8, a total solar eclipse will be visible to Arkansans. In fact, many Americans are traveling to the Natural State to view the moon pass between the earth and the sun. This is a great opportunity to minister to travelers and engage your community with the Creator. Below you can find resources and article to utilize in your ministry.

Why is the Solar Eclipse Important? Did you know that Arkansas Tourism representatives are anticipating up to 1.5 million visitors for the total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024? Astronomy websites have Arkansas as one of the prime places to view the total eclipse. Already hotels and campgrounds are booked, and Chambers of Commerce in many towns are preparing to welcome all the visitors.

What Can Arkansas Baptists Do to Prepare? Arkansas Baptist Churches can utilize this time for outreach events with the goal of sharing the gospel!  Here are four things you and your church can do to take advantage of this exciting opportunity.

1. Be Informed: Arkansas is predicted to be one of the best spots for viewing the eclipse because of the significant path of totality that will move through our state. People will be looking for places to go and things to do. Communities in the line of totality will have a significant increase in population in the days leading up to the eclipse and the day following the eclipse. Arkansas Tourism is capitalizing on the event, along with the state parks. A quick search will also show that many Chambers of Commerce are also preparing. Arkansas Tourism and the University of Central Arkansas recently shared a plan for what an Eclipse event can look like. The presentation is helpful and informative. Here is a link to the presentation.
2. Prepare Now: Begin to plan and promote viewing parties. A church parking lot with facilities will be an attractive option. Consider reserving space at a park or in a location with an unobstructed view. Begin now thinking through food, parking, activities, and gospel conversation opportunities. You may want to bring in a guest speaker and develop gospel cards, tracts, or information that you can hand out to eclipse watchers. Order approved eye glasses to hand out to visitors as those will be in high demand.
3. Promote Soon:  Make sure your website is up-to-date and inviting for guests. Include information for those in the area to watch the eclipse. Post your events, watch parties, and services on community websites, including the Chamber of Commerce. Eclipse watchers will be looking for things to do while they are in Arkansas and some of them will not think to look on a church website for opportunities. Begin now to work collaboratively and creatively with people in your community.
4. Pray for a Harvest! Arkansas Baptists, let’s ask the Lord to move in powerful ways through His creation. God is faithful to reveal and draw people to Himself. Let’s ask Him to do that as 1.5 million people make their way to Arkansas looking for the eclipse, but ultimately encountering the Savior.  There is no doubt that the Church can use the solar eclipse as an avenue to reach people with the good news of Jesus Christ. We are here to help you in the planning process. Click the link below for evangelism tools and resources.