How to Stay Connected to your Congregation: What Texting Does Best
Texting excels at:
-
Fast reminders
-
Emergency updates
-
Quick pastoral encouragements
-
Volunteer confirmations
-
Short links to sign-ups
-
Invitations that require simple yes/no responses
Texting is your nudge, not your sermon. When the moment is urgent, light, or time-sensitive, texting does the heavy lifting.
Combining Both for Stronger Connection
Most churches don’t need to choose between email and texting. The healthiest communication combines the strengths of both. A church might send a Friday email newsletter paired with a Monday text highlighting the week’s most important action step.
For example, you might email your congregation a thoughtful reflection on prayer, then send a Tuesday text inviting them to join the midweek prayer gathering. The channels complement each other when they’re used intentionally and sparingly.
Segment Your Communication for Better Engagement
Not everyone needs every message. Segment your lists so communication feels personal rather than overwhelming. Parents may need children’s ministry reminders, volunteers may need schedules, and newcomers may prefer small-group invitations.
Even small churches can segment effectively with simple tools. The goal is to match the right message to the right people, using the right channel at the right time. Good segmentation honors both the message and the recipient.
RELATED: 10 Great Apps for Pastors
Tone Matters More Than Technology
Whether email or texting, tone should be pastoral, relational, and personal. Avoid coming across like a corporate memo machine. Warmth builds trust. Brevity builds clarity.
A simple Scripture, blessing, or question can transform a routine message into nourishment:
“Psalm 46 has encouraged me today. What Scripture is strengthening you right now?”
Connection deepens when the communication sounds like a shepherd, not a marketer.
Respecting Rhythms Prevents Communication Fatigue
Communication isn’t just about sending. It’s about timing wisely. Too many emails and people disengage. Too many texts and they mute the church number. Build predictable rhythms so your congregation knows what to expect and can absorb communication instead of dodging it.
Ask your people occasionally what helps them stay connected. A two-question survey can give you insight you couldn’t guess on your own.
Choosing the Right Channel to Stay Connected to Your Congregation
At the end of the day, using email and texting wisely helps you stay connected to your congregation in ways that strengthen trust and deepen community. Technology won’t shepherd people for you, but it can support the relational work God has already called you to do. Start with one small improvement this week: refine your newsletter, craft a thoughtful text, or streamline your communication rhythm. Small adjustments can strengthen the bond between pastor and people in meaningful ways.
