Since I started my ministry in 2004, I have created many websites for churches. Not only have I created church websites where I have pastored, but I also have websites to help others.
This, combined with the fact I am constantly rebuilding my church’s website, and trying out different things, has led me to learn some basics that a church website should have to be effective. I wanted to share some of my experiences with you so you can learn from them and ensure that your church websites have these “must-haves.”
7 “Must-Haves” for Church Websites
1. Services and Location
It is hard to count how many times I have tried to find a church website’s location or start times. They usually have one but forget to show the other. They may give their address and phone number or say that services are available at 10:00 AM.
I post a map of my church. It allows you to zoom in, view directions, and save the map for later. This makes it easy for people to find their way to your church. It was placed on this website using the Google Maps iframe code. However, if iframes are not your preferred method, you can also use the WP Google Maps plugin. You can also get the HTML code directly from Google Maps.
2. Sample Sermons
Today’s youth will listen to 6 sermons and watch six videos before they visit a church. You should give them a taste of your church. You should stream your church services live. Our live stream was watched by almost twice the number of people who attended our church services on Sundays. It has helped us increase the effectiveness and reach of our ministry.
3. Let them know what to expect when they come to your church
People used to know what to expect when they went to church. At least a church was something they knew about. But that is no longer the case.
- Do you have a dress code?
- Is there a nursery?
- What will I have to do?
- What is the duration of the service?
These are all things they’ll want to know before they go to church.
Let them know what the experience will be like for a new visitor to the church. From the first greeting to the last dismissal. Please let them know.
4. Give an introduction to your pastor and the staff
- A friendly picture
- Here is a brief bio about their education, experience, and degrees.
- They play a vital role in the church and have a vision for what God calls them to do.
- It’s something personal, like their spouse, children, or hobbies.
Including a welcome video from the pastor on your church’s website is also a great idea. Nothing is more welcoming than an invitation from your pastor to visit your church.
5. Children And Youth Ministry Information
People are interested in knowing if childcare is available for children under five and a children’s ministry for teens and older children. They should know whether their children need to go to the children’s church and who will be responsible for them. Also, ensure they understand the screening process you use to screen your children’s workers.
6. Let people know what type of church you are.
The attempt to be everything to everyone is one of the biggest errors I see on church websites. It’s time, to be honest. My church is not you. Your congregation has its own values and beliefs.
Instead of trying to reach everyone, focus on reaching those most interested in your type of church.
Let them know what your church believes and values. Tell them if you’re a hymn-singing congregation. Tell them if you’re conservative. Tell them if you care about social issues. They will learn anyway.
7. Make sure your church website has a call to action
A call to action is one of the most important things I find lacking in many church websites. Although they provide all the necessary information, they don’t ask people to make a positive change.
Ask your friends and family to sign up for your newsletter. Ask them to pray for you. Ask them to set up an appointment with the pastor. Ask them to do something that will allow you to connect with them beyond their website.
Do not leave them to decide for themselves. You can help them in this process. It doesn’t matter how straightforward you are. Ask them to establish a connection.
Church Website Must Haves
There you go. These are seven essential elements for your church website. I hope you found this article helpful in designing church websites effective for your church.
This article on church websites originally appeared here, and is used by permission.
