Church websites
I look at church websites all the time. Why? Because I find it to be an interesting way for a church to advertise itself, and I like to look at churches I am familiar with to see if their website really reflects what the church is really like.
I do have some thoughts on church websites, which I think are helpful.
Every church should have some indication of their basic core beliefs. This is a helpful thing because many people looking for churches are intersted in that.
I also think that it is helpful to have a link that describes the staff, like an introduction to the pastors and other people that lead in worship, or work in administrative capacities. These are also helpful when they have photos.
Links to audio sermons. Put them in mp3 format, or wmv. The only problem with wmv is that it takes longer for dial up to download, so mp3 is better. Audio sermons are a good way for people to get a hint at the flavor of the church they are interested in. Audio sermons are also a good way for others to listen. Usually during the semester, when I am studying, I listen to many sermons online if they're available.
Pictures, pictures, pictures. You don't have to have pictures of people with names being mentioned if you're concerned about privacy, but pictures of the facilities, or of a worship service are helpful.
A short history of the church. There's another good way that people can connect to a potential church and learn more about where they are visiting. It's also a good way for people who look at church websites (like me) to learn more about other churches.
Principals for church websites
1. Every church should have one. There is a real benefit to having a website. It's a way of advertising for more visitors/members, and it's a way to have a presentation of the gospel on the web.
2. Don't make your church seem different than it really is. If your church has 50 members, don't make a flashy website that fools people into thinking when they walk in that there are going to be 300 members. Be honest. Obviously, there is no reason to talk about numbers, but do not make your website look like your church is something that it's not. That's dishonest.
3. Use pictures and audio. This is a good way for interaction and learning.
4. No midi files. They are annoying. No one wants to hear a midi start up automatically because they sound bad, and also they are a pain to turn off.
5. History. Let the surfer get a sense of your congregation's history and core values. It's a good way to attract new members and visitors and it's a way for the congregation to connect.
6. Make your website as good as it can be. This is your church that is being promoted and shared. You have to find someone who can create something that is fresh and easy too look at. Spend the $70 a year for hosting and a real url. Don't rely on a free service because they repel visitors to your site.
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Similar to this topic, but I must admit that I know my website needs work done, and I have been trying to find some good templates, or help on designing a few pages and graphics for my personal site which this blog is a part of.
I do have some thoughts on church websites, which I think are helpful.
Every church should have some indication of their basic core beliefs. This is a helpful thing because many people looking for churches are intersted in that.
I also think that it is helpful to have a link that describes the staff, like an introduction to the pastors and other people that lead in worship, or work in administrative capacities. These are also helpful when they have photos.
Links to audio sermons. Put them in mp3 format, or wmv. The only problem with wmv is that it takes longer for dial up to download, so mp3 is better. Audio sermons are a good way for people to get a hint at the flavor of the church they are interested in. Audio sermons are also a good way for others to listen. Usually during the semester, when I am studying, I listen to many sermons online if they're available.
Pictures, pictures, pictures. You don't have to have pictures of people with names being mentioned if you're concerned about privacy, but pictures of the facilities, or of a worship service are helpful.
A short history of the church. There's another good way that people can connect to a potential church and learn more about where they are visiting. It's also a good way for people who look at church websites (like me) to learn more about other churches.
Principals for church websites
1. Every church should have one. There is a real benefit to having a website. It's a way of advertising for more visitors/members, and it's a way to have a presentation of the gospel on the web.
2. Don't make your church seem different than it really is. If your church has 50 members, don't make a flashy website that fools people into thinking when they walk in that there are going to be 300 members. Be honest. Obviously, there is no reason to talk about numbers, but do not make your website look like your church is something that it's not. That's dishonest.
3. Use pictures and audio. This is a good way for interaction and learning.
4. No midi files. They are annoying. No one wants to hear a midi start up automatically because they sound bad, and also they are a pain to turn off.
5. History. Let the surfer get a sense of your congregation's history and core values. It's a good way to attract new members and visitors and it's a way for the congregation to connect.
6. Make your website as good as it can be. This is your church that is being promoted and shared. You have to find someone who can create something that is fresh and easy too look at. Spend the $70 a year for hosting and a real url. Don't rely on a free service because they repel visitors to your site.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Similar to this topic, but I must admit that I know my website needs work done, and I have been trying to find some good templates, or help on designing a few pages and graphics for my personal site which this blog is a part of.
posted by Bobby's blog at 9:03 AM
2 Comments:
Bobby- good thoughts. Have you seen the website Church Marketing Sucks? They hit on a lot of good information along the lines of your brief critique. You might also be interested in Websites that suck.
Thanks for the link Ed. For some reason, I am obsessed with looking at church websites. I think they're extremely important, and if taken lightly, can give the wrong impression and message.
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