REACHRIGHT Podcast

Social media is a powerful tool for churches to connect with their communities, share messages of faith, and reach new people. With so many social media platforms available, it can be hard to know which ones are the best for ministry.

Some social media sites work well for live streaming services, while others are better for sharing daily inspiration or engaging in discussions. Choosing the right platform depends on your church’s goals and the audience you want to reach.

In this podcast, we rank the top social media sites for churches based on their features, ease of use, and effectiveness in spreading the Gospel. Whether your church is looking to grow its online presence, connect with members, or attract newcomers, finding the right social media platform can make a big difference.

Keep listening to discover which social media sites are the best for churches and how they can support your ministry!

Estimated reading time: 7 minutes

Table of contents

• Social Media Platforms Ranking System
  • Best, Useful, Limited
• Top 11 Social Media Platforms
  • 1. Facebook
  • 2. Instagram
  • 3. Snapchat
  • 4. Tiktok
  • 5. YouTube
  • 6. Twitter/X
  • 7. LinkedIn
  • 8. Pinterest
  • 9. Reddit
  • 10. Spotify
  • 11. BeReal
• Choosing the Right Platform for You
• More Resources on Church Social Media

Choosing the right social media platforms is important for churches that want to connect with people effectively. A strong social media strategy helps churches reach their audience, share messages of faith, and build an online community.

With so many various social media platforms available, it’s important to focus on the ones that best fit your church’s needs. Some platforms are great for live streaming services, while others work better for sharing daily devotionals or engaging in conversations.

By following social media trends, churches can stay relevant and reach more people. Posting the right type of social media post on the right platform makes a big difference in engagement. Having clear church social media strategies helps ensure that each post serves a purpose, whether it’s inviting people to an event, sharing a sermon, or encouraging discussions.

Using the right platforms wisely can strengthen a church’s online presence and ministry impact.

This ranking system helps churches quickly see which social media platforms work best for ministry. It uses three simple categories:

This makes it easy for social media teams to choose the right platforms without confusion. The rankings consider things like ease of use, audience engagement, and how many posts a church can share effectively.

Some platforms allow frequent updates, while others work better for occasional content. By using this system, churches can focus on the best tools for reaching people, growing their ministry, and making the most of social media.

Now it’s time to jump into our list of the top 11 social media platforms. Each of these vary from how impactful they can be for a church’s social presence. We’ll go through each platform, describe its strengths and weaknesses, and then rank it using our system.

Let’s jump in.

Facebook is one of the best social media platforms for churches. It allows churches to share sermons, post updates, and engage with members easily. Features like live streaming, groups, and event pages help build community.

Churches can also promote fundraising events to support their ministries. With a large audience and easy-to-use tools, Facebook is a great choice for outreach and connection.

Instagram is great for churches that want to share visuals like sermon clips, quotes, and behind-the-scenes moments. It encourages user-generated content, letting members share their faith experiences. Stories and Reels help reach new people, especially younger audiences.

However, it lacks strong group features and easy link sharing. While it’s good for engagement, it works best alongside other platforms.

Snapchat is mainly used by younger audiences, making it a possible tool for youth-focused online ministry. Churches can share short, engaging messages, behind-the-scenes clips, and event reminders. However, content disappears quickly, and it lacks group or community-building features.

It’s not ideal for long-term engagement or deep discussions. Because of these limitations, Snapchat is not ideal for most churches but may work for youth outreach.

TikTok is great for churches wanting to reach younger audiences with short, engaging videos. A few examples of content include sermon clips, worship moments, and Bible challenges.It’s ideal for spreading messages quickly and creatively. However, it lacks strong community-building tools and long-form content options. While it’s useful for outreach, it works best alongside other platforms.

YouTube is a powerful platform for churches to share full-length sermons, worship services, and Bible studies. Church leaders can use it for deep teachings and community outreach. It’s great for long-form content and has a large audience reach.

However, it can be time-consuming to maintain a channel and requires good video production quality. While YouTube is excellent for visibility and content ...

In today’s digital age, a church’s website often serves as the first point of connection for potential visitors and members. It’s a platform where seekers find information, members stay connected, and the community grows.

But not all church websites are created equal. Some are shining examples of effective design and communication, while others miss the mark, potentially turning people away. From modern layouts and intuitive navigation to outdated designs and overwhelming content, church websites run the gamut.

In this podcast, we’ll explore the best and worst trends shaping church websites today. We’ll highlight what works—engaging visuals, clear calls to action, and mobile-friendly interfaces—and discuss what doesn’t, like cluttered layouts, slow load times, or confusing structures.

Whether you’re designing a new site or improving an existing one, understanding these trends will help your church create a welcoming and impactful online presence.

Let’s get into it.

Estimated reading time: 8 minutes

Table of contents

• Ranking Website Trends
  • Pop-ups
  • “Plan a Visit” Buttons/Pages
  • Online Giving Buttons/Pages
  • Video/Photo Backgrounds
  • Livestreaming Services
  • Sermon VODs
  • Mobile Viewing
  • Interactive Church Calendars
  • Member Portals
  • Google Maps Integration
  • Testimonial Sections
  • Search Bars
  • FAQs for Newcomers
• Church Website Design
• More Resources on Church Websites

Here is our list of website trends, from pop-ups to online giving buttons and sermon VODs. We’ll look at each of these and their impact on church websites and the website-viewing experience. What works? What doesn’t?

Let’s jump in and find out.

Pop-ups are common on most church websites, often used to share announcements or encourage sign-ups. When used carefully, they can grab attention and guide site visitors to important information, like upcoming events or newsletters.

However, they don’t always work well. Too many pop-ups or poorly timed ones can frustrate visitors and make them leave the site. To be effective, pop-ups should be minimal, easy to close, and provide value, ensuring they enhance the experience instead of disrupting it.

“Plan a Visit” buttons or pages are a helpful feature on the best church websites. They give site visitors clear information about what to expect, like service times, parking, and childcare, which can make attending less stressful.

A new church website should include this feature to create a welcoming experience. However, if the page is hard to find or lacks key details, it won’t be effective. A well-designed “Plan a Visit” section makes visitors feel prepared and more likely to attend.

Online Giving buttons or pages are a practical feature for church members to support their church conveniently. When placed prominently and designed simply, they work well by allowing secure and easy donations. Many churches also connect this feature to their church app for added flexibility.

However, if the giving page is hard to find or confusing, it may discourage donations. A clear, user-friendly Online Giving option helps church members contribute while supporting the church’s financial needs effectively.

Video or photo backgrounds on homepages can create a warm and inviting first impression for site visitors. They’re a great way to showcase a church’s close-knit community and highlight events, worship, or the leadership team.

All that being said, they don’t always work if the videos are too distracting or take too long to load. For the best results, use high-quality visuals that reflect your church’s personality and ensure they don’t slow down the site. This keeps visitors engaged and informed.

Livestreaming services directly from the website is a powerful feature for connecting with site visitors, especially in a multisite church. It allows people to join worship from anywhere, fostering unity across campuses.

A skilled web designer can ensure the livestream is easy to find and runs smoothly. However, poor video quality or technical issues can frustrate viewers. To work well, livestreams should be reliable, accessible, and supported by clear instructions, making it a valuable tool for engaging the congregation.

Promoting sermon VODs (Video On Demand) is a growing trend that helps engage visitors by offering easy access to past messages. Churches like Elevation Church use this feature effectively, allowing people to watch sermons anytime, which can deepen their connection and faith.

However, it doesn’t work well if the videos are hard to find or poorly organized. To engage visitors successfully, ensure the VODs are high quality, clearly labeled, and easy to navigate, making them a valuable resource for all.

Designing for mobile viewing is essential for church websites since most site visitors browse on their phones. Mobile-friendly sites work well by being easy to navigate and quick to load. When done poorly, they can frustrate users. Here’s what works:

Many of us have chosen to follow church leaders we trust. But how do you know you are being shepherded in the right way or are being led astray? What makes good pastors and what makes toxic pastors?

Knowing what to watch for in a church leader is key to creating a healthy, thriving ministry. Some signs show that they are on the right path—green flags that encourage growth and unity. Others are yellow flags, warning you to slow down and evaluate. And then there are red flags—serious issues that demand immediate attention.

In this episode, we’ll explore these flags and what they mean for your leadership and your church. Let’s dive in and learn together!

Estimated reading time: 10 minutes

Table of contents

• What is Toxic Church Leadership?
  • What Makes a Church Leader Healthy?
  • What Makes a Church Leader Toxic?
  • Why It’s Important
• Green, Yellow, and Red Flags
  • Green Flags
  • Yellow Flags
  • Red Flags
• Ranking Pastoral Qualities
  • Accountability
  • Favoritism
  • Gossiping
  • Silencing
  • Transparency
  • Ignorance
  • Blaming
  • Sharing
  • Boundaries
  • Overextension
  • Prioritization
  • Burnout
• Toxic Pastors
• More Resources on Church Leadership

Before we get into the green, yellow, and red flags you may see in church leaders, it’s important to identify exactly what we’re talking about. Why is this so important and why should you care?

A healthy church leader is humble, caring, and focused on serving others. They lead with integrity, putting the needs of their church members above their own. Healthy leaders communicate clearly, listen well, and encourage growth in their team and congregation.

They build a positive church culture where everyone feels valued and supported. By modeling Christlike behavior, they inspire trust and unity, creating a healthy church environment.

Toxic leaders are often self-centered, controlling, or manipulative. They use their position for personal gain, ignoring the well-being of church members. Toxic leadership creates fear, division, and mistrust. Unhealthy church leadership often refuses accountability, dismisses feedback, or silences criticism.

These behaviors harm church culture, making it difficult for people to grow spiritually or feel safe. Over time, an unhealthy leader can damage relationships and weaken the entire ministry.

Understanding the difference between healthy and toxic leadership is crucial for the health of any church. A healthy church leader helps build a strong, supportive community where members thrive. On the other hand, toxic leadership can hurt individuals and push people away from the church.

Recognizing the signs of toxic leaders allows church members to address problems early, protect their community, and create a church culture that honors God. Healthy leadership isn’t just about avoiding harm; it’s about fostering a space where everyone can grow in faith, love, and service.

Identifying and encouraging healthy leadership ensures the church remains a place of hope and healing for all.

Now it’s time to identify the different levels of health and unhealth in a church leader. Very few people actually take the time to step back and evaluate the church culture they are apart of. Its important to assess our leaders (in grace) so that we can recognize a toxic church culture.

Green flags in church leadership are positive signs of a healthy and thriving environment. They show that a leader is humble, accountable, and focused on serving others.

Green flags include clear communication, respect for boundaries, and a commitment to fostering unity and spiritual growth within the church.

Yellow flags are warning signs that something might be off. They don’t always mean immediate harm, but they signal the need for caution and further evaluation. Examples include a leader avoiding feedback, struggling with transparency, or showing inconsistent behavior.

Addressing yellow flags early can prevent bigger problems later.

Red flags indicate serious issues in leadership that require immediate attention. These are signs of toxic leadership, such as controlling behavior, manipulation, dishonesty, or creating division among church members.

Red flags harm church culture and can lead to an unhealthy church environment. Recognizing these signs is crucial to maintaining a strong, supportive community.

Now let’s jump into various examples of pastoral qualities a church leader may have. Once we expand on these characteristics or actions, we can then identify if they are a green, yellow, or red flag in a leader. This will help us locate bad church leadership when we find it and avoid any spiritual abuse.

abusive leadership

Accountability is a vital pastoral quality that helps leaders stay humble and trustworthy. A pastor who is open to feedback, willing to admit mistakes, and works closely with church staff shows a green flag of healthy leadership. They create a culture where others feel safe and supported.

However, if a leader avoids accountability, dismisses concerns, or isolates themselves, this moves into the yellow flag zone, signaling potential problems. In extreme cases, refusing accountability can become a red flag, showing toxic leadership.

Not all churches prioritize accountability equally, but it’s essential for ...

A church meltdown can feel overwhelming. Whether it’s a campaign that didn’t connect, a message that caused confusion, a public mistake, or even a full-on online canceling, the effects can shake your confidence.

You may feel like you’ve let down your congregation or damaged your church’s reputation in the community. But there’s hope. Every challenge is an opportunity to grow, learn, and refocus on your mission.

In this podcast, we’ll explore practical steps to recover from a marketing crisis with humility, wisdom, and faith. With the right approach, you can turn this setback into a chance to rebuild trust and strengthen your outreach.

Estimated reading time: 8 minutes

Table of contents

• So Something Went Wrong…
  • What is a Church Marketing Meltdown?
  • Scenarios That Can Lead to Trouble
  • The Negative Effects of a Meltdown
  • Why Recovery is Important
• 7 Steps for Recovery
  • 1. Assess the Damage
  • 2. Apologize and Acknowledge
  • 3. Seek Counsel
  • 4. Revisit Mission and Vision
  • 5. Develop a Recovery Plan
  • 6. Rebuild Trust
  • 7. Evaluate and Adjust
• A New Chapter
• More Resources on Marketing Mistakes

Before we get into our step-by-step recovery process, let’s first cover the meltdown itself. What was it, what happened, and how has it impacted your community and team? Once we’re able to identify what went wrong, then we’ll be able to figure out a gameplan for recovery.

A marketing meltdown happens when something goes wrong with your efforts to share your church’s message. This could be a failed campaign, a poorly received post on social media, or even a technical problem with your church website.

Sometimes, it’s a small mistake that grows into a bigger issue. Other times, it might be a result of an unclear or outdated church marketing plan.

There are many ways things can go off track. Maybe your church community didn’t respond well to a new digital marketing approach. Perhaps a flyer or ad for community events was misprinted with incorrect information.

A church website might crash on an important day, leaving visitors frustrated. Or, a misstep in your local church marketing strategy could unintentionally offend or alienate people.

When something goes wrong, it can have a ripple effect. A marketing meltdown can damage trust within your church community and hurt relationships with visitors or potential members. It might also make your church appear disorganized or out of touch.

Poorly executed church marketing strategies can lead to low attendance at services or events, which can affect your ability to grow and serve effectively.

Mistakes happen, but how you respond matters. A strong recovery plan can turn things around and even improve your church’s image. By learning from what went wrong and refining your church marketing plan, you can create strategies that better serve your congregation and the wider community.

Whether it’s fixing your digital marketing efforts, revising a local church marketing strategy, or improving how you promote community events, each step helps rebuild trust and shows your church’s commitment to growth.

When handled with humility and care, even a marketing meltdown can become a chance for your church to connect more deeply with others.

Now that we’ve identified the meltdown and it’s impact, we can go over our 7-step process for recovering. No matter how big the problem was, there is always the ability to make amends and recover from it.

Feel free to scale this process depending on the severity of the meltdown. A minor problem may not need your team’s full attention on every one of these steps, while a big issue should take priority and each of these steps should be taken with care.

As always, these are just guidelines and suggestions, always pray and ask the Lord for guidance first.

The first step in recovering from a church marketing meltdown is to assess the damage. Start by reviewing what went wrong. Was it a poorly planned campaign, a mistake in promoting church events, or a misstep with local businesses?

Gather feedback from your team and listen to concerns from your congregation. Check social media, emails, and community responses to understand the impact. Be honest about the situation and take note of what needs to change.

This step is important for identifying the problem and finding solutions. By assessing the damage, you can create a path toward rebuilding trust and improving communication.

When a church marketing meltdown happens, it’s important to apologize and acknowledge the mistake. A sincere apology shows humility and a commitment to making things right. Whether the issue affected your congregation, the community, or both, address it directly and honestly.

Use social media, emails, or public announcements to share your apology, depending on where the mistake occurred. Keep your message clear and focused on taking responsibility.

Avoid making excuses or placing blame. Instead, emphasize your desire to learn and improve. A heartfelt apology helps rebuild trust and demonstrates that your church values transparency and accountability in all its efforts.

When recovering from a marketing meltdown, seeking counsel is a wise step. Talk to trusted advisors, such as church leaders, communication experts, or members with experience in marketing strategy.

Their insights can help you understand what went wrong and how to fix it. Pray for wisdom and guidance as you work through the situation. If needed, consider reaching out to professionals who specialize in church marketing to provide advice or training.

This isn’t a problem you need to face alone. With the right counsel, you can develop a ...

As we look ahead to 2025, church marketing is set to change in exciting ways.

More churches are using digital tools to connect with people in their communities. Social media is becoming a place for sharing real stories and building relationships, not just promoting events. Videos are growing in popularity because they help share messages in a clear and engaging way.

New technologies like artificial intelligence are also starting to help churches by making communication faster and more personalized. At the same time, churches are focusing on staying connected with their local communities and finding new ways to bring people together in person.

These trends show that while technology is important, building real, meaningful connections remains at the heart of church marketing. By following these trends, churches can continue to grow and share their message with more people in the year ahead.

In this podcast, we explore the current church marketing trends and make predictions on how we think they will evolve in 2025 and beyond.

Let’s jump in.

Estimated reading time: 8 minutes

Table of contents

• Church Marketing in 2025
  • The Early Days of Church Marketing
  • The Rise of Digital Tools
  • The Modern Approach to Church Marketing
• Future Trends
  • Social Media
  • Community Building
  • Storytelling
  • Content Creation
  • Data and Statistics
  • The Rise of AI
• What Do You Think?
• More Resources on Church Marketing

Before we get into our trends and predictions, its important to take a look at the evolution of church marketing and where it is now in 2025. We’ll look at the early days vs. the modern day as well as the rise of digital marketing tools.

In the past, church marketing was simple and mostly local. Churches used bulletin boards, word of mouth, and announcements during services to reach out to people. Flyers and posters were common tools for inviting people to events or services.

At this time, church marketing efforts were focused on reaching church members and their immediate communities. The idea of a church marketing team didn’t really exist—most of the work was done by volunteers or pastors. Churches relied on personal connections and relationships to grow their church community and spread their message.

As technology advanced, church marketing strategies began to change. The rise of the internet brought new opportunities, like the creation of church websites. These websites became central to how churches shared information about services, events, and their mission.

Social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram allowed churches to connect with people beyond their local area. Videos and livestreaming made it easier for churches to reach members who couldn’t attend in person.

These digital tools gave church marketing teams powerful ways to expand their reach while still keeping their church community connected.

Today, church marketing strategies blend tradition with modern technology. Churches still value in-person connections, but they also use tools like email newsletters, mobile apps, and targeted online ads to reach more people.

A strong church website is now essential for sharing updates, hosting sermons, and providing resources for church members. Churches are also using data to better understand their communities and personalize their outreach.

Church marketing efforts now often include a dedicated team that handles social media, graphics, and video production. This modern approach helps churches stay connected with their community while also reaching new audiences.

Church marketing has come a long way, from simple flyers to advanced digital strategies. By adapting to changes in technology and culture, churches have found new ways to grow their communities and share their message with the world. Whether through a handshake or a livestream, the goal remains the same: to connect with people and build a stronger church community.

Now that we have a better understanding of church marketing, let’s get into our trends and predictions. We will cover everything from social media to storytelling in advertising to the rise of AI.

Let’s get into it.

Social media has become an important tool for Christian church marketing. Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube allow churches to connect with people inside and outside their church community. Sharing event updates, inspirational messages, and live-streamed services helps churches stay visible and relevant.

A successful church marketing plan often includes using social media to engage with followers through comments, polls, and videos. These platforms also make it easier to share the church’s mission and values in creative ways, like through reels, stories, or interactive posts.

In the future, social media for Christian church marketing may focus more on personalization, using tools like artificial intelligence to create posts that resonate with specific audiences. Virtual reality and augmented reality could also bring unique ways to connect, such as hosting virtual church tours or online prayer gatherings. As technology evolves, social media will remain a key part of church marketing efforts.

Community building is a powerful tool for church marketing because it creates strong connections within the local church community. Hosting community events like picnics, volunteer days, or family movie nights helps churches bring people together and show they care about more than just Sunday services. These events all...

In 2025, most churches have social media accounts and are posting regularly.

Chances are, your church is one of them. But flourishing on social media as a church isn’t easy. And that’s where trends come in.

These viral movements can help churches grow online, but may also have the chance to harm them. So should churches hop onto these trends? Should they avoid they completely? How might trends fit into your church’s social media strategy?

In this podcast, we take a look at the top 11 most popular social media trends for church accounts and determine which ones are worthwhile and which ones should be avoided.

Let’s jump in.

Estimated reading time: 9 minutes

Table of contents

• Ranking Trends
  • Evaluating Church Social Media Trends
  • Ranking System
• Top 11 Church Social Media Trends
  • 1. Live-streaming Services
  • 2. Event Promotions
  • 3. Behind-the-scenes Content
  • 4. Testimonies and Stories
  • 5. Sermon Clips
  • 6. Online Small Groups
  • 7. Social Media Challenges
  • 8. Volunteer Spotlights
  • 9. Seasonal Content
  • 10. Church Announcements
  • 11. User-generated Content
• Exploring Social Media Trends
• More Resources on Church Social Media

Before we get into our list of the most popular trends, let’s explore what we are looking for when we are evaluating them. We are also going to explain the system we will be using to rank the trends.

We evaluate church social media trends by looking at what makes a trend successful and what doesn’t. A good trend is one that engages the church community, grows their social media presence, and follows social media guidelines. We focus on how churches use social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok to create meaningful connections and share content that resonates with their audience.

A good trend will have posts that encourage interaction, such as likes, comments, or shares, and are aligned with the church’s mission and values. A bad trend, on the other hand, may feel disconnected, lack engagement, or violate social media guidelines.

By examining these factors, we rank trends and highlight what works best for churches in building a positive online presence.

We use a simple ranking system to evaluate church social media trends. The system has three levels: excellent, average, and poor.

An excellent trend features social media posts that are creative, engaging, and align with the church social media policy. These posts connect well with church members, encouraging likes, shares, and comments, while strengthening the church’s online presence.

An average trend may have some engagement but lacks creativity or full alignment with the church’s mission. These posts might be inconsistent with the church social media policy or not resonate deeply with church members.

A poor trend has low engagement and could be potentially harmful. These posts may confuse or disconnect with church members and weaken the church’s online presence.

Here are the 11 most popular church social media trends here in 2025. While some of these may change over the next few years, many of these have become staples for churches on social media, and will probably continue to be for awhile.

Let’s look deeper into each one.

Live streaming services has become a significant church social media trend, offering an accessible way for congregations to engage with worship online. By streaming services on platforms like Facebook, YouTube, or church-specific apps, churches can reach members who cannot attend in person due to distance, health issues, or scheduling conflicts.

This trend helps expand the church’s social presence, allowing it to connect with a broader audience globally. Live streaming also fosters real-time interaction through comments, prayer requests, and engagement, creating a sense of community among church members both online and in person, while supporting church growth and outreach efforts.

Event promotions have become another popular church social media trend, helping churches reach their community and encourage participation in various events. By using platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, churches can easily share information about upcoming events, such as fundraisers, youth group activities, or special services.

Social media posts can include event details, registration links, and even videos or images to make the promotion more engaging. This trend helps churches increase attendance, build excitement, and connect with members and potential visitors.

Promoting events on social media also ensures the church’s message reaches a wider audience, both locally and beyond.

Behind-the-scenes (BTS) content has become a popular trend, offering followers a glimpse into the daily workings of the church. This can include footage of service preparations, team meetings, or volunteer activities, helping to humanize the church and build a deeper connection with the congregation.

BTS content shows the effort and dedication behind church events, making followers feel more involved. It also gives insight into the church’s mission and values, fostering transparency and trust. Sharing these authentic moments on platforms ...

Pastors today face more demands than ever, juggling sermons, meetings, counseling, and outreach.

With so much to manage, having the right tools can make all the difference. In 2025, technology offers pastors new ways to save time, stay organized, and connect with their congregations.

From apps that help plan services to tools for managing church events, these resources can ease the burden of daily tasks. This podcast highlights must-have tools that busy pastors can use to make ministry more effective and focused.

With the right support, pastors can spend less time on logistics and more time serving their people.

Let’s dive in.

Estimated reading time: 13 minutes

Table of contents

• Ministry Management Tools
  • Planning Center
  • Rock RMS
  • Church Windows
  • Servant Keeper
• Communication Tools
  • Altar Live
  • Buffer
  • Mailchimp
• Sermon Preparation Tools
  • Logos Bible Software
  • Olive Tree Bible App
• Personal Wellness Tools
  • Abide App
  • Pray.com
• Tools for Pastors
• More Resources on Church Software

First up, let’s cover the best ministry management tools for pastors. These allow church leaders to manage their church community, giving their time and attention to what matters the most, whether it be checking in on church members or analyzing church finances.

In today’s digital age, there are plenty of helpful tools online to help pastors manage their church. Let’s look at a few of the best ones.

Planning Center is a church management software known for its user-friendly interface and outstanding customer support, ensuring that users can make the most of the software with ease.

One drawback of Planning Center is its limited customization options, which may not suit churches that require more tailored solutions. However, the software’s robust functionality and excellent customer support make it a top choice for churches seeking a comprehensive church management solution.

Price: $14 – $49 per month

Specifications: Church management involves much more than just organizing members and events. Comprehensive software is one way to ensure everything runs smoothly.

Pros:

Cons:

All in all, Planning Center is a solid church management tool that thousands of churches have found success with.

See our full Planning Center Review

Rock RMS shines because of its strong community-driven model, where developers and users work together to keep the platform innovative and aligned with the changing needs of churches. Its detailed documentation and active user community also make it easier for newcomers to explore its wide range of features and customization options.

That said, the platform’s many features and flexibility can feel daunting for first-time users, presenting a steep learning curve. Even so, its powerful tools, adaptability, and supportive ecosystem make Rock RMS an excellent choice for churches seeking to enhance their ministry through technology.

Price: Custom; Based on church needs

Pros:

Cons:

Rock RMS stands out as one of the most popular and customizable church management platforms, but it can require more time and brainpower to operate.

See our full Rock RMS review

Church Windows enables churches to efficiently manage their finances and streamline operations with ease. While its cost is higher compared to other church management software, its robust accounting features make it a worthwhile investment for churches prioritizing financial management.

Price: $499

Specifications:

Pros:

Does your church want to recruit, manage, and retain volunteers effectively?

Volunteers are the heart of any church. They help run programs, care for others, and bring the church’s mission to life. But keeping volunteers excited and committed can be a challenge. Engaging them well makes a big difference—it builds a stronger community, helps volunteers grow spiritually, and ensures church ministries thrive.

In this guide, you’ll learn practical tips for recruiting, training, and retaining volunteers. Whether your church is small or large, these strategies can help you inspire and appreciate those who give their time and talents.

Let’s explore how to create a culture where volunteers feel valued and connected.

Estimated reading time: 7 minutes

Table of contents

• What is Church Volunteer Engagement?
  • Understanding Volunteers
  • Laying the Foundation for Engagement
• Managing Church Volunteers
  • Recruiting Volunteers
  • Training Volunteers
  • Retaining Volunteers
• Tools and Resources
  • Volunteer Management Software
  • Scheduling Apps
  • Communication Platforms
  • Training Resources
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
• Church Volunteer Engagement
• More Resources on Church Volunteers

Church volunteer engagement is about connecting with volunteers in meaningful ways to keep them involved, inspired, and committed to their roles. It’s not just about getting tasks done—it’s about building relationships within the church community and helping volunteers feel valued and fulfilled.

Engaged volunteers are excited to serve, whether they’re teaching Sunday school, welcoming guests at a church service, or helping in the church office.

So let’s dive deeper into understanding these valuable people and how we can lay the foundation for engagement.

Church members volunteer for different reasons. Some want to grow spiritually, others enjoy helping others, and some simply want to be part of the church community. To engage them, it’s important to understand their interests, skills, and motivations.

For example, a person with a gift for teaching may thrive in Sunday school classes, while someone who’s organized might prefer helping with office tasks. Knowing your volunteers helps match them with roles they enjoy, which keeps them excited about church volunteering.

The first step in engaging volunteers is creating a welcoming environment.

Start by sharing the church’s mission and vision clearly during a church service or through meetings. Make sure church members know how their volunteering supports this mission. Provide clear job descriptions, training, and encouragement so they feel prepared.

Building a culture where volunteers feel appreciated and connected to the larger church community is key to lasting engagement. This foundation ensures that church volunteering becomes a joyful and meaningful experience.

Now we’ll get into the three important steps to managing volunteers. First, you need to actually recruit people and get them on your team. Secondly, you need to train them so that they can accomplish their tasks effectively. Finally, you need to retain them and keep them on the team.

Let’s jump in.

Recruiting volunteers is an important step for any local church to thrive. It starts with church leaders clearly sharing the need for help and explaining how volunteer opportunities support the church’s mission.

Announcements during a church service, posts on social media, or flyers in the lobby can spread the word. Personal invitations are also powerful—sometimes people need to be asked directly to feel encouraged to step in.

Church leaders should make it easy to sign up and provide clear descriptions of each role. Matching people’s skills and interests with the right volunteer opportunities ensures they enjoy serving. When church members feel needed and valued, they are more likely to join and stay involved.

Training volunteers is essential to help them feel confident and prepared for their roles. It shows them they are valued and part of a team working toward the same mission. Whether they are greeting guests at church services or organizing events, proper training makes a difference.

Here’s how to train volunteers effectively:

When training is clear and supportive, volunteers feel confident and connected.

Retaining volunteers is about helping them feel valued and connected to the church. When volunteers know their efforts matter, they are more likely to stay committed. Regularly thanking them during church services or at community events goes a long way.

Offering fun opportunities, like helping with Vacation Bible School or leading a community service project, keeps them engaged and excited. Building relationships among volunteers also strengthens their commitment. Encourage friendships by creating teams or hosting social gatherings.

Checking in with volunteers, listening to their feedback, and offering new challenges shows you care about their growth. A church that appreciates and supports its volunteers will see them ...

How can we adapt the way we do church based on what the numbers say?

In this episode, Thomas and Ian discuss the six most shocking church statistics for 2025. Each of them are bringing three different stats to the table without telling each other what stats they’ve chosen.

Listen in as they explore what the numbers are saying about church attendance, church membership, healthy churches, and more.

For a full list of all the important church statistics for 2025, check out our list here.

Estimated reading time: 5 minutes

Table of contents

• Top 6 Church Statistics
  • 1. Churches Are Still Recovering From Pre-Pandemic Attendance Losses
  • 2. The Average Age of a Pastor in the U.S. is 51
  • 3. The Percentage of Americans Identifying as Christian is Falling Below 50%
  • 4. Only 10-15% of Congregants Tithe Regularly
  • 5. Substantial Growth in Christian Universities
  • 6. Weekly Church Attendance is Down to 20%
• Church Statistics
• More Resources on Church Stats

Churches continue to feel the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. While attendance rates have improved—climbing from 65% of pre-pandemic numbers to 85%—most churches are still not back to their 2019 levels.

This recovery is a testament to the hard work of pastors and ministry leaders across the country. It’s important to celebrate the progress while understanding that the goal isn’t necessarily to return to 2019’s numbers. Instead, churches should focus on fostering momentum, growth, and deeper engagement.

According to Zippia, the average pastor in the United States is 51 years old. This statistic highlights a growing challenge for churches: the aging of their leadership.

As churches seek to engage younger generations, it’s critical to recruit and develop younger leaders. Churches thrive when they reflect the diversity of their communities, including age diversity. Intentional efforts to mentor and empower the next generation of pastors will be vital for the future.

The predicted decline of Americans identifying as Christian is a sobering statistic. For the first time, it’s projected that fewer than 50% of Americans will identify as Christians.

This shift presents significant challenges but also opportunities. As Christianity becomes less of a cultural default, churches have an opportunity to nurture a more passionate and committed core of believers. Evangelism and discipleship will become even more critical in this changing cultural landscape.

Despite the biblical principle of tithing, only 10-15% of church attendees tithe regularly. This statistic highlights a missed opportunity for many Christians to experience the spiritual and practical blessings of generosity.

Tithing is not just about supporting the church; it’s a transformative practice that aligns believers with God’s principles. Churches should continue teaching about stewardship and generosity, inviting members to step into this life-changing discipline.

Christian universities have seen significant growth, driven by a desire among students for meaning, connection, and community. Many students are seeking alternatives to secular institutions, drawn by the values and support systems offered by Christian higher education.

This trend aligns with the broader opportunity for churches and Christian organizations to provide spaces of belonging and purpose, especially for younger generations seeking direction in an increasingly disconnected world.

In 2000, 32% of Americans attended church weekly. By 2025, that number has dropped to just 20%. However, 41% of Americans say they attend church monthly, indicating a shift in what it means to be a “regular attender.”

This trend challenges churches to rethink engagement strategies. While the definition of regular attendance has shifted, the importance of weekly worship remains. Churches must find ways to meet people where they are while encouraging deeper commitment and consistency in gathering together.

These six statistics paint a picture of where churches stand in 2025. While challenges abound, so do opportunities for growth and impact. Whether it’s recovering from the pandemic, raising up younger leaders, or adapting to cultural shifts, the church has a vital role to play in shaping the future.

If any of these statistics resonate with you, we’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below. And don’t forget to check out our full list of church statistics for 2025 for even more insights. Together, we can help churches reach more people and grow.

As we look at church statistics for 2025, it’s clear that faith communities continue to play a vital role in people’s lives. While regular church attendance has seen shifts over the years, attending church regularly remains an important part of spiritual practice for many, whether they have formal church membership or are looking at different churches. Nondenominational churches, in particular, have grown as people seek flexible and welcoming spaces for worship.

Whether it’s a church service on S...

How many sermons have you preached? Ten? Fifty? A hundred?

If you’ve been preaching long enough, you know that there are tons of different ways to preach. You can do a one-off sermon or a sermon series. You can use a slideshow or not use screens at all. But out of all of these, which ones are the best?

In this episode, we rank the top 13 sermon strategies on a couple different criteria. We encourage you to use this list as a way to help you choose your strategy for your next sermon!

Estimated reading time: 9 minutes

Table of contents

• Ranking Sermon Strategies
  • Evaluating Sermon Strategies
  • Ranking System
• Top 13 Sermon Strategies
  • 1. Sermon Series vs. One-off
• Exploring Sermon Strategies
• More Resources on Sermons

Before we get into our list of the top 13 sermon strategy ideas, we should clarify exactly what we are basing all of these rankings on. Of course, all of these rankings are completely subjective; anything you preach out of God’s word with a pure heart can make an impact.

Even so, it’s good to know what we are looking at when discussing what makes a great preaching strategy, and what makes a bad preaching strategy. We’ll also include the 3-part scale we are using to rank each strategy.

Evaluating different sermon strategies starts with understanding your audience. Think about their needs, preferences, and spiritual maturity. Are they new believers, long-time Christians, or a mix?

Next, consider your message. Is it best shared through storytelling, teaching, or a mix? Match the strategy to the message. For example, a series works well for deep topics, while a one-off sermon fits special events.

Test how each strategy feels to you. Are you comfortable using visuals like slides or trying an object lesson? Consider time and resources, too. Can you prepare a drama or interactive segment in advance?

Gather feedback after trying a strategy. Ask your audience what they learned or enjoyed. Reflect on the sermon’s impact—did it inspire action or understanding? Adjust based on what works best for your congregation. With practice, you’ll find a balance that connects deeply with your audience.

Our ranking system helps us to rank sermon strategies based on their role in guiding believers. Strategies re grouped into three categories:

Now it’s time to get into our list of the top 13 sermon strategies. These strategies will be evaluated and put into one of the three ranking categories listed in the section above.

Let’s get into it.

A sermon series dives deeply into a theme or book over weeks, giving more time to explore complex ideas. One-off sermons focus on a single message for a specific moment, like holidays or unique events. Series build continuity, helping people connect messages, while one-offs offer flexibility for special needs. Both work well, depending on the goal and timing. Choose based on your audience and the story you want to tell.

Movie clips can bring sermons to life by connecting biblical truths to familiar stories. They grab attention, stir emotions, and help explain complex ideas in relatable ways. Choose clips wisely—keep them short, relevant, and appropriate for all ages. After showing the clip, tie its message to Scripture clearly. Be mindful of copyright rules and ensure the content supports your main point, not distracts from it.

Slideshow presentations can highlight key sermon points, Bible verses, or images that clarify your message. They help visual learners and keep people engaged. Make slides simple and easy to read, avoiding too much text or distracting designs. Use visuals sparingly to enhance, not overshadow, the sermon. Practice syncing slides with your speech for smooth delivery, and test equipment beforehand to avoid technical problems.

Preparing alone allows for deep focus, prayer, and personal reflection, while group preparation offers fresh perspectives and creative ideas. Collaboration can reveal blind spots or strengthen weak areas. Choose based on your style and message needs. Alone suits personal storytelling, while groups help with brainstorming themes or illustrations. Whichever approach, seek God’s guidance, and make sure your message stays clear and authentic.

Seasonal messages tie sermons to holidays or events like Easter, Christmas, or Thanksgiving. They connect Scripture to the season’s meaning, helping people reflect on their faith. Seasonal themes often draw more attendees, so use them to encourage deeper connections. Plan ahead, choosing topics that resonate with the season but also remain timeless. Keep the message fresh, even if covering familiar themes like the nativity or resurrection.

Object lessons use physical items to make abstract ideas easier to understand. For example, a mustard seed illustrates faith’s potential, while a mirror reflects self-examination. These visuals capture attention and help people remember key points. Choose items that are simple, relatable, and tied to your message. Avoid over-complicating the demonstration, so it complements rath...