Dean Cothill

Tag: church leadersip

  • 3 local church strategies for welcoming new families to church

    3 local church strategies for welcoming new families to church

    As a church community, welcoming new families to Sunday gatherings is an important aspect of building a strong, vibrant and inclusive faith community. In South Africa, there are a variety of unique cultural, social, and economic factors that can impact the way a church approaches outreach and welcoming. However, no matter the specific context, there are some fundamental strategies that can be effective in inviting and welcoming new families to Sunday services. In this blog post, we will explore three such strategies that churches in South Africa can use to create a welcoming environment for new families. Whether your church is just starting out or has been established for many years, these strategies can help build a strong foundation for growth and community building.

    Personal invitations

    1. Personal Invitations: One of the most effective ways to welcome new families to church is through personal invitations from existing members. Encourage members to invite their friends, neighbors, and co-workers to attend Sunday services and make them feel welcomed.

    When extending an invitation, it’s important to be friendly and approachable, and to clearly explain what the church is all about. Providing information about the services, programs, and activities that the church offers can help new families understand what to expect when they arrive.

    Personal invitations can also be combined with other outreach efforts, such as community events or door-to-door visits, to help build relationships with people in the community. When people feel that they have a personal connection to someone in the church, they are more likely to attend and feel welcome.

    Additionally, it’s important to follow up with new families after they attend Sunday services. Having a designated person or team responsible for welcoming and connecting with new families can help ensure that they feel valued and included in the church community.

    Community Outreach

    Love thy neighbor
    1. Community Outreach: Churches can organize community events such as picnics, festivals, and neighborhood clean-up days to build relationships with people in the community. This creates opportunities to share the church’s message and invite people to Sunday services.

    Examples of community outreach activities could include neighborhood clean-up days, picnics, festivals, or sporting events. These events provide opportunities for people to connect with members of the church and learn more about what the church has to offer. They can also help to break down barriers and create a welcoming atmosphere for new families.

    When organizing community outreach events, it’s important to consider the needs and interests of the community. For example, if the community is made up of many families with young children, organizing a family-friendly picnic or festival might be a good option. If the community is home to many seniors, a health fair or senior fitness day might be a better fit.

    By connecting with people in the community and demonstrating the church’s commitment to serving others, churches can create a positive image and encourage more people to attend Sunday services. Community outreach activities can also help to build trust and establish the church as a valuable resource for the community.

    Newcomer Orientation

    1. Newcomer Orientation: Establish a welcoming process for new families by having a designated person or team responsible for welcoming and orienting them. This person or team can provide information about the church, answer questions, and help new families get connected to others in the church community. A newcomer orientation could also include a tour of the facility and an introduction to key staff members and ministry leaders.

    A newcomer orientation can include a tour of the facility, an introduction to key staff members and ministry leaders, and information about the church’s services, programs, and activities. It’s important to provide new families with clear and concise information about what to expect on Sunday mornings and how to get involved in the church community.

    In addition to a formal newcomer orientation, it’s also important to have a welcoming atmosphere in the church on Sunday mornings. This can include having greeters at the door, providing information about the church and its services in the bulletin or program, and having a designated area for newcomers to gather and connect with others.

    Finally, it’s important to follow up with new families after they attend Sunday services. This can include a phone call or email to thank them for attending and to answer any questions they may have. Providing new families with opportunities to get involved in the church, such as volunteer opportunities or small groups, can also help to make them feel included and valued in the church community.

    Overall, a newcomer orientation process can help to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for new families and encourage them to return to Sunday services. By making new families feel valued and included, churches can build a strong foundation for growth and community building.

    Where to from here?

    I believe that, welcoming new families to Sunday gatherings is a vitally important aspect of building a strong and inclusive church community in South Africa. By using personal invitations, community outreach, and newcomer orientation, churches can create a welcoming atmosphere and encourage more people to attend Sunday services.

    Each of these strategies provides opportunities to build relationships with people in the community, demonstrate the church’s commitment to serving others, and provide new families with clear and concise information about what to expect when they attend Sunday services.

    By implementing these strategies, churches in South Africa can create a positive image and establish themselves as valuable resources for the community. By welcoming new families and making them feel valued and included, churches can build a strong foundation for growth and community building, and create a vibrant and thriving faith community.

  • Church Online Presence 101

    Church Online Presence 101

    How can I build my churches online presence?

    As a local church, having a strong social media presence can be a valuable tool for reaching and connecting with your community. However, with so many different platforms and strategies to choose from, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. In this blogpost, we’ll discuss some ideas on how to do this, like tips on road mapping your social media channels, documenting your story telling, restarting your social media presence, building a sustainable content calendar, and understanding your audience correctly.

    Who is my target audience and which social platforms are they on?

    First and foremost, it’s important to determine which social media platforms your target audience is most active on. This will help you focus your efforts on the channels that are most likely to reach the people you want to connect with. Once you know which platforms to focus on, you can then create a cohesive and consistent presence across those channels. This includes developing a consistent brand image and tone of voice, as well as regularly posting relevant and engaging content.

    If you’re running a youth groups social pages, are you wanting to speak to the parents or to the young people themselves?

    When running various pages for your children church, how are you setting up resources for the parents? For example:

    1. Keep it age-appropriate: When creating content for a kids church ministry, it’s important to remember that your audience is children. This means that the content should be age-appropriate and easy for them to understand. Avoid using jargon or complex language, and instead opt for simple and clear messaging. Also, consider the visual aspect of your content, colorful, and fun images and videos will grab the attention of children.
    2. Encourage parent participation: The parents of the children in your ministry are likely to be your biggest advocates. Encourage them to share content from your ministry’s social media pages with their friends and family. This can include sharing pictures or videos of their children participating in ministry activities, or sharing posts that provide information about upcoming events.
    3. Make it interactive: Children love to be engaged and interactive, so make sure your social media content is interactive as well. This can include creating interactive polls, asking questions, or hosting virtual events that allow children to participate. This will not only increase engagement but also help them to be part of the ministry and make it more meaningful for them.

    By keeping these tips in mind, you can create a social media presence for your kids church ministry that is both effective and engaging for children and their parents. Remember to always keep the focus on building community and connection, and have fun with it!

    How do I go about documenting our story?

    Documenting your story telling is also crucial for building a successful social media presence. This means being intentional about the messages and themes you want to convey through your content, and having a clear understanding of your church’s story. This will help you create a cohesive and compelling narrative that resonates with your audience. It’s a strange way to think about history, but remember, today will one day be 5 years ago, and I want to encourage you as best as possible to ensure that you’re documenting today.

    Here are 4 tips on how to document your story…

    1. Use a variety of mediums: There are many different ways to document the story of your local church, so it’s important to use a variety of mediums to ensure that the story is being told in the most engaging and impactful way. This can include photos, videos, written accounts, and audio recordings. Each medium has its own strengths and can be used to tell different parts of the story.
    2. Create a timeline: Putting the story of your church into a timeline format can help to provide context and a sense of progression. This can include important events, milestones, and the people who have played a role in the church’s history. This timeline can be shared on your website, social media, or in a physical display at the church.
    3. Collect personal stories: Personal stories are a powerful way to document the story of your local church. Encourage members of the congregation to share their personal experiences and memories of the church. These stories can be collected through interviews, written accounts, or even audio or video recordings. Personal stories can help to give a deeper and more personal understanding of the church and its history.
    4. Use archival materials: Look for archival materials such as old photographs, videos, documents, and other items that can help to tell the story of your church. These materials can be used in exhibits, online galleries, or even in a digital book. This will give a glimpse of the history of the church and its members.

    By using a variety of mediums, creating a timeline, collecting personal stories, and using archival materials, you can create a comprehensive and engaging documentation of the story of your local church. Remember to keep in mind that the story of the church is ongoing, so keep updating the documentation as new events happen or as new personal stories are shared.

    But we have been inactive for a while, how do we restart?

    If your church’s social media presence has been inactive for a while, don’t worry! There are steps you can take to restart your social media presence. One strategy is to focus on creating a sense of community and connection through your content. This can include sharing personal stories, hosting virtual events, or simply reaching out to your followers to see how they’re doing. Additionally, you can also consider running a social media campaign to build momentum and increase engagement. So some tips to get going again…

    1. Be transparent: If you’ve been away from social media for a while, it’s important to be transparent with your followers about why you’ve been absent. This can include sharing an explanation on your social media pages or sending out a newsletter. By being transparent, you’ll help to rebuild trust with your followers and show that you’re committed to being active on social media again.
    2. Create a content plan: Having a content plan in place will help you to be consistent and strategic as you restart your social media pages. This can include planning out the types of content you want to share, the frequency of your posts, and the specific platforms you want to focus on. Having a plan in place will help you to stay organized and focused as you get back into the swing of things.
    3. Engage with your audience: One of the best ways to restart your social media pages is to engage with your audience. This can include responding to comments and messages, hosting a Q&A session, or running a social media competitions or polls. By engaging with your audience, you’ll be able to build a stronger relationship with them and create a sense of community.
    4. Promote your return: Use the different platforms and strategies available to promote your return. This could include email, press releases, or even billboards. This way, you will be able to reach a large audience and let them know you are back.

    In conclusion, restarting your social media pages after some time off can be a daunting task, but by being transparent, creating a content plan, engaging with your audience and promoting your return, you can regain your followers’ trust and build a strong social media presence. Remember to always be consistent and authentic, and don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it.

    Making sure your schedule is sustainable

    We will be remembered by how well we finish, not how well we start. Having a sustainable content calendar is another important aspect of maintaining a consistent social media presence. This means planning out your content in advance, taking into account factors such as holidays, events, and any other relevant dates. Having a content calendar in place will help ensure that you’re always prepared with fresh and relevant content for your audience.

    Short form video

    Short form content, such as Instagram stories and TikTok videos, has become increasingly popular on social media in recent years. These types of content are great for building engagement and growing your audience, as they’re quick and easy to consume. Additionally, by being clear on who your audience actually is and what their interests are, you’ll be able to create content that is more likely to resonate with them.

    To wrap up

    In conclusion, having a strong social media presence as a local church can be a valuable tool for reaching and connecting with your community. By road mapping your social media channels, documenting your story telling, restarting your social media presence, building a sustainable content calendar, and understanding your audience, you’ll be well on your way to creating a successful and sustainable social media presence. Remember, the most important thing is to be consistent, authentic, and to always keep the focus on building community and connection with your followers.

  • What makes social media so addictive and what can the Church learn from it? (Part 1)

    What makes social media so addictive and what can the Church learn from it? (Part 1)

    Social Media and the local Church

    Social media has become an integral part of our daily lives. It’s a way for us to stay connected with friends and family, stay informed about current events, and even find new job opportunities. But as much as we love it, many of us also find it to be highly addictive. We scroll through our feeds for hours on end, not even realizing how much time has passed, YouTUbe wormholes are a real thing. As church leaders, it’s important that we understand why social media is so addictive and how we can use this knowledge to guide our leadership and church strategies. In PART 1 of this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the science behind social media addiction and then in PART 2 explore some practical steps that church leaders can take to use social media in a healthy and effective way.

    Social media teams
    Constant access: Social media platforms can be accessed from anywhere and at any time, making it easy for users to constantly check for updates and engage with their networks.

    One of the biggest factors that makes social media so addictive is the constant access that it provides. With the widespread availability of smartphones and internet access, people can easily check their social media accounts at any time and from anywhere. This constant access means that people can be constantly updated on what their friends, family, and even strangers are doing, thinking, or saying.

    Additionally, with push notifications, users are alerted every time something new happens on their social media accounts, making it even easier for them to check in frequently. This constant access creates a sense of urgency, as people feel compelled to check their social media accounts regularly to see if they’ve missed anything important.

    Furthermore, the constant access also enables users to engage with their networks at any time, whether that’s responding to comments, sending messages, or posting new updates. This can further increase the sense of connection and community that social media can provide.

    Overall, the constant access that social media provides is a major contributor to its addictive nature, as it makes it easy for users to stay connected and engaged with their networks at all times.

    Fear of missing out (FOMO): Social media can create a sense of FOMO, as users constantly see updates and activities from their friends and feel compelled to keep up with them.
    FOMO is real

    Fear of missing out, or FOMO, is a phenomenon that is closely linked to social media use. Social media platforms allow users to see a constant stream of updates and activities from their friends and others in their networks, and this can create a sense of FOMO as users worry that they might be missing out on something important or fun.

    For example, when users see that their friends are out at a party or event or (even church gathering?), they might feel FOMO and regret not being there, or when they see that a friend has posted a picture of a new purchase, they might feel FOMO and regret not having that item. The fear of missing out can also extend to experiences and activities, as users see their friends traveling, trying new things, and having fun, they might feel FOMO and regret not doing those things themselves.

    This FOMO can be further exacerbated by social media’s curated and edited nature, as users are only exposed to the highlights of other people’s lives, making them believe that everyone is having a better time than they are.

    FOMO can drive users to constantly check their social media accounts, as they want to stay updated on what their friends are doing and not miss out on anything important. This constant checking can lead to increased social media use and addiction.

    Overall, FOMO is a major contributor to social media addiction, as it creates a sense of urgency and compulsion for users to stay connected and informed about their friends’ activities and experiences.

    Instant gratification: Social media platforms offer immediate feedback and validation through likes, comments, and shares, which can be addictive.
    Social media addiction

    Social media platforms offer a unique form of instant gratification through the use of likes, comments, and shares. When users post content on social media, they receive immediate feedback in the form of likes and comments, which can be highly motivating and addictive. The more likes and comments a user receives, the more validation they feel, which can lead to a positive feedback loop of posting more content to gain more validation.

    Additionally, the use of likes, comments, and shares as forms of validation can also create a sense of competition among users, as they strive to get more engagement on their posts than their peers. This competition can drive users to constantly check their social media accounts to see how their posts are performing, further increasing their social media use.

    Furthermore, the instant gratification provided by social media can also be linked to the idea of social comparison, as users are constantly exposed to curated versions of other people’s lives, they might feel the need to have their own life validated by others.

    Moreover, social media platforms have also been known to use engagement metrics to personalize the content that users see, which can further increase the instant gratification that users feel when they receive likes, comments, or shares.

    Social comparison: Social media can lead to constant comparison with others, as users are constantly exposed to curated versions of other people’s lives.

    Social comparison is an inherent aspect of social media use, as users are constantly exposed to curated versions of other people’s lives. They see pictures and updates of their friends and others in their networks, depicting their achievements, accomplishments, and happy moments. This can lead to feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt, as users compare their own lives to the carefully curated versions of others.

    Moreover, Social Media algorithms are designed to show users more of what they like, and this can lead to a filter bubble of content that makes users believe that their peers are more successful, happier, and more attractive than they are.

    Additionally, social media can also create pressure to present an idealized version of oneself, which can lead to feelings of inadequacy when comparing oneself to others. This can also drive users to constantly check their social media accounts to see how they measure up to their peers.

    Furthermore, social comparison can be especially detrimental to mental health as it can lead to feelings of depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem and coming out of COVID and lockdowns, this is greater than ever before.

    Self-expression: Social media platforms provide a way for users to express themselves and share their thoughts and experiences with a wide audience

    Social media platforms provide a unique way for users to express themselves and share their thoughts, feelings, and experiences with a wide audience. Users can post updates, pictures, and videos, which can help them to communicate their individuality and personal brand to others.

    Self-expression on social media

    This self-expression can be highly motivating for users, as it provides them with a sense of validation and recognition from their peers. Users can also receive feedback and support from their friends and family, which can be especially valuable for those who feel isolated or disconnected in their offline lives.

    Moreover, self-expression can also be seen as a form of self-validation, as users can use social media to explore their own beliefs, values, and interests.

    Additionally, social media also enables users to create and join groups and communities based on shared interests, which can provide a sense of belonging and connection. (Here already as a church leader or pastor some flags should be popping up for you)

    Personalization: Social media platforms allow users to curate their own feeds, tailoring the content they see to their interests and preferences.

    Social media platforms allow users to personalize their feeds by following, unfollowing, and blocking certain accounts, tailoring the content they see to their interests and preferences. This personalization can be highly addictive as it provides users with a sense of control over the information they receive. Users can choose to see content that aligns with their interests and values, which can be highly satisfying and motivating.

    Additionally, the personalization of social media feeds can also lead to a filter bubble, where users are only exposed to information that confirms their existing beliefs and values, which can make them less likely to engage with dissenting views.

    Furthermore, with the use of complex algorithms, social media platforms can also personalize the content that users see based on their engagement metrics, which can further increase their use of the platform.

    Algorithm-based content: Social media platforms use complex algorithms to personalize the content that users see, making it difficult for users to disengage once they’ve started using the platform.

    Social media platforms use complex algorithms to personalize the content that users see, based on their engagement metrics such as likes, comments, shares, and click-through rates. These algorithms are designed to show users more of what they like, and as a result, users are exposed to a curated selection of content that is tailored to their interests and preferences. (READ THAT AGAIN)

    Hooked on social

    This algorithm-based content can make it difficult for users to disengage once they’ve started using the platform, as the content is continuously updated and personalized to keep them engaged. Furthermore, the use of algorithm-based content can also lead to a filter bubble, where users are only exposed to information that confirms their existing beliefs and values, which can make them less likely to engage with dissenting views.

    Overall, algorithm-based content is a major contributor to social media addiction, as it makes it difficult for users to disengage once they’ve started using the platform, by personalizing the content to their interests and continuously updating it to keep them engaged.

    What does this mean for us as leaders and where to from here?

    In conclusion, social media addiction is a complex issue that has many different causes. From the psychological pull of instant gratification to the social pressure to stay connected, there are many factors at play. As church leaders, it’s important that we understand the underlying reasons why social media is so addictive. In part two of this blog post, we will delve deeper into how church leaders can learn from these behaviours and use this knowledge to guide our leadership and church strategies. We will explore practical steps that can be taken to use social media in a healthy and effective way, while still staying connected with our congregations and communities. Stay tuned for the next installment of this series, and in the meantime, consider taking a step back and evaluating your own social media usage.

  • How to market your local churches Sunday gatherings and other events.

    How to market your local churches Sunday gatherings and other events.

    Are you looking for ways to effectively promote your church’s events and increase attendance? Look no further! In this blog post, we will be sharing 7 key ideas for marketing your church’s events and reaching a wider audience. From utilizing social media platforms to leveraging the power of SEO, these ideas will help you effectively promote your church’s events and build a sense of community among your congregation. Whether you’re planning a special service, a fundraising event, or a community outreach program, these ideas will help you get the word out and attract more attendees. So, let’s dive in and explore how you can effectively market your church’s events and make a meaningful impact on your community.

    Church Service

    1. Utilize social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter to promote upcoming church events by creating engaging and visually appealing posts, including details about the event, location, and time.

    I would say that utilizing social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter is an essential aspect of promoting upcoming church events. By creating engaging and visually appealing posts, including details about the event, location, and time, we can effectively reach out to our congregation as well as the wider community. Social media allows us to connect with people on a personal level and build a sense of community, which is crucial in getting people excited about attending our events.

    You should also make sure to include a call to action in our posts, such as “RSVP now” or “register today” to make it easy for people to take action and attend the event. Additionally, we should consider using paid social media advertising to reach a wider audience, particularly targeting those who live in the local area. See more here on “targeting specific audiences”.

    In short, social media is a powerful tool for promoting church events and building a sense of community among our congregation. By utilizing it effectively, we can increase attendance and make a meaningful impact on our community.

    2. Leverage the power of Instagram and Facebook stories to share behind-the-scenes content, testimonials from attendees, and live updates from the event.

    I would emphasize that leveraging the power of Instagram and Facebook stories is an excellent way to share behind-the-scenes content, testimonials from attendees, and live updates from the events we host at our church. These platforms allow us to create a sense of excitement and anticipation among our congregation, which in turn can help to increase attendance.

    For example, we can share photos and videos of the preparations for an event, such as setting up the stage or decorating the venue. This will give our congregation a sneak peek into what they can expect and get them excited about attending.

    Additionally, by sharing testimonials from attendees, we can showcase the impact our events have on the lives of our congregation, which can be a powerful motivator for others to attend. Live updates from the event can keep people engaged and connected, even if they are unable to attend.

    In summary, Instagram and Facebook stories are an effective way to create a sense of excitement and engagement around our church events and help to increase attendance. By sharing behind-the-scenes content, testimonials, and live updates, we can create a sense of community and connection among our congregation.

    3. Create a YouTube channel for your church and post videos of sermons, teachings, and events to reach a wider audience and improve your SEO.

    I would stress that creating a YouTube channel for our church and posting videos of sermons, teachings, and events is an excellent way to reach a wider audience and improve our SEO. By having a YouTube channel, we can share the message of our church and the teachings of our faith with a global audience, which can help to attract new members to our congregation.

    YouTube Logo

    Additionally, by optimizing our YouTube videos with relevant keywords and captions, we can improve our SEO and make it easier for people to find us online. This can be especially useful for attracting new members who are searching for a church in our local area.

    Moreover, by posting videos of our events, we can give those who were unable to attend a sense of what they missed and keep them engaged and connected to our community.

    In summary, creating a YouTube channel and posting videos of sermons, teachings, and events can help us reach a wider audience and improve our SEO, which can help to attract new members to our congregation. Additionally, by sharing videos of our events, we can keep our congregation engaged and connected, even if they are unable to attend in person.

    4. Optimize your church’s website for local SEO by including location-specific keywords, creating a Google My Business listing, and encouraging attendees to leave reviews on your listing.

    I would express the importance of optimizing our church’s website for local SEO. This includes including location-specific keywords, creating a Google My Business listing and encouraging attendees to leave reviews on our listing. By doing so, we can ensure that our website appears at the top of search results when people in our local area search for a church. This can be especially useful for attracting new members who are searching for a church in our area.

    Creating a Google My Business listing allows us to provide important information about our church such as our address, phone number, and hours of operation. Additionally, by encouraging our attendees to leave reviews on our listing, we can showcase the positive impact our church has on the lives of our congregation. This can be a powerful motivator for others to visit our church and join our community.

    In short, by optimizing our church’s website for local SEO, we can improve our visibility online and make it easier for people in our local area to find us. This can help to attract new members to our congregation and showcase the positive impact our church has on the community.

    5. Partner with local influencers, bloggers, or media outlets to help promote your church events and reach a “new” audience.

    As I even begin to think about this topic I begin to cringe a little bit and actually struggle to connect the dots between influencers and The Church. But even as I type this I think about the woman at the well, was she an influencer of sorts? So as “Dean Cothill” and that weird world of social media influencers and the likes, I would stress the importance of partnering with local influencers, bloggers, or media outlets to help promote our church events and reach a new audience. By doing so, we can tap into their existing networks and reach a wider audience than we could on our own.

    Social media influencers at an event

    For example, partnering with local influencers can help us reach a younger demographic and showcase the relevance of our church in today’s society. Working with bloggers or media outlets can provide us with valuable coverage and exposure for our events, which can help to attract new members to our congregation.

    Additionally, by partnering with these individuals and organizations, we can gain valuable insights into the needs and interests of our community and tailor our events and services to better meet their needs.

    So by partnering with local influencers, bloggers, or media outlets can be a powerful tool in promoting our church events and reaching a new audience. By tapping into their existing networks and gaining valuable insights, we can attract new members to our congregation and better serve the needs of our community.

    6. Use email marketing to keep your congregation informed about upcoming events and remind them of the details.

    Email marketing has almost slipped under the radar with the rise of social media and us just trying to keep our Facebook and socials up to date, but email is still so key to keep our congregation informed about upcoming events and remind them of the details. Email is a powerful tool for reaching our congregation directly, and we can use it to keep them informed about important dates, events and other church-related information.

    For example, we can send out email reminders about upcoming events, including details about the location, time, and what attendees can expect. This can help to increase attendance and ensure that everyone is informed about what’s happening at our church.

    Email marketing for churches

    Additionally, we can use email marketing to share updates on the progress of our events, such as fundraising efforts, and ask for support. We can also use it to share post-event reports and highlight the impact of the event on our community.

    7. Create a hashtag for your church events and encourage attendees to share photos and posts using it on social media.

    Lastly, hashtags are a powerful tool for creating a sense of community and engagement around our events. By using a specific hashtag, we can easily track and curate all of the social media posts related to our event in one place.

    For example, we can create a unique hashtag for each event and encourage attendees to use it when posting about the event on social media. This can help to create a sense of community and engagement among our congregation, and also allow us to easily track and curate all of the social media posts related to our event.

    Additionally, by encouraging attendees to share their photos and posts on social media, we can create a sense of excitement and anticipation for our events, which can help to increase attendance.

    In summary, creating a hashtag for our church events and encouraging attendees to share photos and posts using it on social media is a powerful tool for creating a sense of community and engagement around our events. It allows us to track and curate all of the social media posts related to our event and increase attendance.

    Having a specific hashtag for a brand or community is important for several reasons:

    1. Branding: Using a specific hashtag helps to establish and reinforce the brand’s identity. It makes it easy for people to recognize the brand and associate it with specific content.
    2. Community building: Hashtags allow people to easily find and join conversations about a brand or product. This can help to build a sense of community around the brand, which can lead to increased loyalty and advocacy.
    3. Content curation: Hashtags make it easy to curate and organize user-generated content. This can be used for marketing purposes, such as showcasing customer reviews, testimonials, and engagement.
    4. Analytics: By tracking the usage of a specific hashtag, brands can gather data on engagement, reach and the demographics of users who are engaging with the brand.
    5. Discoverability: Hashtags increase the discoverability of a brand or product on social media. Hashtags make it easy for people to find and join conversations about a brand or product, which can increase the brand’s visibility and reach.

    In summary, a specific hashtag is important for any brand as it helps in building recognition, community, curating content, tracking analytics and improving discoverability.

    Hashtag coffee cup for church.

    Last bonus tip, we all love coffee and have worked hard to offer great coffee to our volunteers and church guests. Put your next big event on your take away cups, can be as easy as using a stamp.

    In conclusion, effectively promoting your church’s events is crucial in building a sense of community and increasing attendance. By utilizing social media platforms, leveraging the power of SEO, and partnering with local influencers, you can effectively reach a wider audience and promote your church’s events. Additionally, by using email marketing, creating a mobile app, and encouraging the use of a specific hashtag, you can keep your congregation informed and engaged with your church’s events and activities.

    Implementing these 7 key ideas can help you to create a sense of excitement and anticipation for your church’s events, and increase attendance. Remember to stay consistent, always evaluate the results of your efforts and adapt accordingly. Don’t be afraid to try new strategies, and most importantly don’t be afraid to ask for help or feedback from members of your congregation. With the right approach and a little creativity, you can effectively market your church’s events and make a meaningful impact on your community.

  • Finding the illusive “creative” volunteer for your Church Teams

    Finding the illusive “creative” volunteer for your Church Teams

    No matter where you are or how big your congregation is, if you are a tech, production, or creative leader in the church, you are aware of how difficult it can be to get volunteers.

    Many of you are doing this work as volunteers and are already struggling to manage your obligations, let alone run a Sunday service. It can sometimes feel like you lack the time or resources to pursue finding and leading individuals.
    Similar to you, I have encountered same problems in the 12 years that I have served and managed a Creative Ministry, and when I say “creative” I think you know what I mean, although we will get into that a little later, I don’t just mean the guy who dresses a little “colorful”, the stand out artist or vibe enneagram 4 (LOL)

    What is a “Creative”?

    What is a Creative?

    A creative is someone who has a unique way of seeing the world. They have a great sense or intuition and often bring life to the party, always coming up with interesting stories and witty one-liners. They have a way of making even the dullest of situations feel charged with energy. They’re the type that people enjoy being around, they’re friendly and outgoing but also sensitive souls that tend to be very introspective.

    These types tend to be creative and artistic, they have a rich inner world, they’re often poets and artists who like to explore the deeper aspects of life. They tend to be emotional and often show a wide range of feelings and emotions, they can be funny and make you laugh but at the same time they can be the ones that make you cry at a comedy show. They have a unique perspective on life, they can add a special touch to any situation.

    In a nutshell, CREATIVES are multi-faceted, interesting and fun personalities with a touch of depth and depth and emotional intelligence. Big ideas and the vision for bigger things usually come easily, but you soon realize that you can never achieve them on your own. Actually, if you don’t have the necessary people in place, it could even be challenging to carry out regular weekly tasks.

    I have four suggestions for you to keep in mind if you’re ready to start being serious about expanding your creative team and creative volunteers. As you are undoubtedly aware, finding volunteers is not always simple, nevermind these “Bezelels“. With these suggestions, though, you can be successful and you could even wonder why you didn’t start earlier. Over the years, they have served me well, so I’m eager to see how well they will serve you and your community.

    1. Take A Genuine Interest In “these” types of people

    I am aware of how hectic your Sunday mornings might be, but if you want to grow your team, you will need to spend time socializing outside of your tech booth, or away from your Mac editing suite.

    So that your Sundays are spent more on developing relationships and less on work, get ready for the service earlier in the week. Of course, you could do this at other times during the week, but right now is your best chance. The circumstances are ideal—the audience is the correct one, the moment is right, and they are in the proper state of mind. Get out of your comfort zone and socialize. In the foyer, smile and say hello to them.

    Remember their name, and make sure to address them by it the next time you speak with them. You should make an effort to show people that you are genuinely interested in them (NOT JUST THEIR GIFTS). Encourage them to communicate about themselves by being a good listener. You can build a bridge for someone to join your team if you take the time to get to know them and truly demonstrate your importance to them.

    2. Invite Them To Something Great(er)

    Speaking for myself as a church technologist and creative, we frequently enjoy playing the martyr.

    “I work alone on all of this.”
    “I have to spend more time at the church than everyone else.”
    “I don’t remember the last time I had a Sunday off,” the person said.

    Anyone who could be interested in volunteering will be put off by this exact type of presentation. Instead, focus on the positive aspects of this ministry. After all, you do adore this stuff, don’t you? Talk about how much fun operating the equipment can be. Tell people how important it is to establish a worshipful environment. Tell us how you used what you learnt to accomplish something amazing. Tell people how cool the cameras are. Show people the light and sound panels and communicate how fun it is to be part of the experience. This sounds more like an organization that a recruit would want to join.

    Keep in mind that people will only naturally participate in something if it benefits them. You must thus invite them to an event that enhances their quality of life. Instead of inviting people to join you in your suffering, talk about this as a chance to accomplish something amazing. If you talk about how much you love participating in production or creative ministry to enough people, I’m ready to bet that others will approach you and beg to get involved.

    3. Take On The Role of Coach in the team

    Ever had an outstanding coach? What about a teacher who had a significant influence on your life? Years later, I can remember name the mentors who inspired me to improve or who assisted me in achieving a goal I never imagined I could. They are amazing to me since they had nothing to gain from my victory. Simply put, they found pleasure and joy in my success. As we seek out volunteers, this is the role that we must play. We must shift our attention away from the immediate task at hand and onto encouraging others to use their gifts for the glory of God.

    Make expressions of praise your default language as you engage others. Be quick to compliment them on their good qualities, no matter how minor. Applaud them for using their talents to honor their Creator and lead people to Christ. Remind them of the significance of what they are doing. Make it simple to win and challenging to lose. Even when they do fail, be encouraging and make the mistake appear simple to fix. You are much more likely to keep someone coming back if you encourage them to try serving with you and work with them in this manner.

    4. Do For One What You Can’t Do For All

    You might be thinking that everything seems impossible at this moment. This would undoubtedly take a long time to execute. There is no way that you can spend time doing this for everyone because you are already overworked. Truthfully, you’re correct. This is not something you can do for everyone all the time. But I’d advise you to set aside some time to do this for just one person. Give to one person what you would like to give to everyone. If you only have time to meet one person, start with them even if you may want to get to know everyone in your church lobby.

    It would be wiser to focus your efforts on one sincere conversation rather than spreading your enthusiasm for this mission to everyone. You could wish to enlist a group of ten new volunteers, but if you can’t effectively manage a small group, you’ll probably struggle to manage a larger one.

    It’s best to start small and give it your all while recruiting. Even if you can’t meet for coffee with ten people every day of the week, scheduling one afternoon conversation is a step forward. Even though you might not be able to commit to sending many motivating texts throughout the week, try adding one to your calendar. Even if you might not have enough time, you can undoubtedly teach one person how to use the church’s technology, cameras or lights. Try being deliberate in this season, one person at a time, wherever you are on your journey. You’ll soon be able to reflect on your life and realize how much of an impact you’ve had on many others.

  • If it was easy, everyone would be doing it…

    If it was easy, everyone would be doing it…

    Whether its 04:30 alarm clocks and getting to the gym or CrossFit, starting a new hobby or business, following you dreams, hopes and desires for a new year ahead or balancing work and home life to ensure your partner appreciates you as much as your boss does, everything and anything worthwhile, is uphill to quote John C. Maxwell.

    In order to truly achieve success and fulfillment in life, it is important to understand that challenges and difficulties are a natural and necessary part of the journey. If something were to be easy, it would lose its value and significance, as it would no longer require effort or dedication to accomplish.

    Mountain climbers

    Think about it this way: if everyone were able to easily attain their goals and aspirations, what would be the point in striving for them? Without the sense of accomplishment that comes from overcoming obstacles and adversity, we would miss out on the opportunity to grow and develop as individuals. If these goals were easy, everyone would run 100m in under 10 seconds, everyone would scale Mt Everest, everyone would have their own dream company and the closest group of friends, but these things aren’t normal, not everyone goes there.

    Furthermore, when we face challenges and work hard to overcome them, we are able to tap into our inner strength and resilience. We learn to persevere in the face of adversity, and we become more confident in our abilities and our capacity to succeed.

    In other words, it is precisely because something is difficult that it becomes worthwhile. The process of striving and struggling to achieve a goal is what gives it value, and it is what ultimately leads to a sense of fulfillment and satisfaction.

    So, the next time you find yourself faced with a challenge, remember that it is not meant to be easy. Embrace the difficulty and use it as an opportunity to grow and become the best version of yourself. With hard work, determination, and a positive attitude, you can overcome any obstacle and achieve your dreams. The next time you find yourself faced with a challenge, take it as a sign, that you’re on the right road and that your dreams are closer than you know, that these challenges are actually a high five from the Universe saying, keep going, keep pressing, keep leaning into the life that you have always wanted and dreamed of.

  • Let’s show some gratitude online…

    Let’s show some gratitude online…

    Less grumpy, more gratitude.

    Gratitude is a powerful emotion that has the ability to transform our lives and relationships for the better. It can help us to appreciate the people, experiences, and things that bring joy and meaning to our lives. In this blog post, we will explore the many benefits of cultivating gratitude, and provide tips for how to make it a daily practice. By learning to express gratitude regularly, we can improve our mental and physical well-being, strengthen our relationships, and lead more fulfilling lives.

    How to show gratitude online

    One way to show gratitude to people online is to simply say “thank you” when they do something that you appreciate. This can be as simple as thanking someone for answering a question or providing a helpful suggestion. It’s important to be sincere and specific when expressing gratitude, so be sure to mention what you are thanking the person for and why you appreciate it.

    Another way to show gratitude is to express your appreciation for someone’s character or actions. For example, you might say something like “I really appreciate your kindness and generosity” or “I’m so grateful for your support and encouragement.” By focusing on the person’s positive qualities, you can show that you value them as an individual and not just for what they have done for you.

    A third way to show gratitude is to offer a small gesture of appreciation, such as sending a virtual gift or sending a handwritten note. These gestures can be especially meaningful if you are unable to be physically present with the person.

    A fourth way to show gratitude is to simply be there for someone when they need it. Whether it’s offering a listening ear or providing practical assistance, being a supportive presence can mean a lot to someone who is going through a difficult time.

    A fifth way to show gratitude is to make an effort to stay in touch with people, even when you are busy or live far apart. A simple message or phone call can go a long way in letting someone know that you care about them and value their friendship.

    A sixth way to show gratitude is to celebrate the achievements and milestones of the people in your life. Whether it’s a big accomplishment or a small win, taking the time to acknowledge and celebrate someone’s success can mean a lot to them.

    Finally, a seventh way to show gratitude is to simply be grateful and express your appreciation for the people in your life on a regular basis. This can be as simple as telling someone “I’m so glad to have you in my life” or sending a message to let them know that you are thinking of them. By expressing your gratitude frequently and consistently, you can strengthen your relationships and build deeper connections with the people in your life.

    So let’s break it down…

    1. “Thank you so much for your help! I really appreciate it.”
    2. “I can’t thank you enough for your advice and guidance.”
    3. “I’m grateful to you for taking the time to share your thoughts with me.”
    4. “I appreciate your willingness to lend a helping hand.”
    5. “Thank you for being such a great support and encouragement.”
    6. “I’m grateful for your kind words and encouragement.”
    7. “Thank you for always being there for me and for your ongoing support.”

    There you go, copy and paste these into a few chats…

    Let’s have an attitude of gratitude, together, online.

    Grace and peace

    Dean

  • The Joy and The Journey

    The Joy and The Journey

    The joy and the journey,

    A brand new year begun.

    Promises made in good faith,

    To be carried out, one by one.

    The road ahead is long,

    But we’ll travel it with grace.

    With hope in our hearts and fire in our soul,

    We’ll make our mark in this place.

    The future is ours to shape,

    With hard work and determination.

    We’ll turn our dreams into reality,

    No obstacle too great to overcome.

    So let us embrace the new year,

    With open arms and open hearts.

    The joy and the journey,

    A brand new start.

  • What are some things that are preventing Church Growth at the moment and what could help? (Part 1 of 2)

    What are some things that are preventing Church Growth at the moment and what could help? (Part 1 of 2)

    There are many factors that can affect church growth. Here are nine potential issues that may be preventing church growth:

    1. Lack of a clear vision or mission: If a church doesn’t have a clear sense of its purpose or direction, it may be difficult to attract and retain members.
    2. Lack of outreach or evangelism: If a church is not actively reaching out to the community and sharing its message, it may struggle to attract new members.
    3. Poor communication: If a church is not effectively communicating with its members and the wider community, it may be difficult for people to understand and connect with its mission and vision.
    4. Limited resources: A church with limited resources may struggle to effectively minister to its members and attract new ones.
    5. Ineffective leadership: Poor leadership can demoralize church members and make it difficult for the church to move forward.
    6. Disunity among members: Disagreements and conflicts within a church can create a negative atmosphere and discourage people from joining or staying involved.
    7. Lack of relevance: If a church is not addressing the needs and concerns of its community, it may struggle to attract and retain members.
    8. Competition with other churches: In some areas, there may be a lot of competition among churches for members, which can make it difficult for any one church to grow.
    9. Negative reputation: If a church has a negative reputation in the community, it may be difficult to attract new members.

    Now here is where Creativity AND Innovation come in…

    But first a Bible story…

    For 3 points, who was the first person in the Bible to receive the Holy Spirit? It was a young man by the name of Bezelel. Bezalel possessed such great wisdom that he could combine those letters of the alphabet with which heaven and earth were created; this being the meaning of the statement (Exodus 31:3): “I have filled him … with wisdom and knowledge,” which were the implements by means of which God created the world, as stated in Proverbs 3:19, 20. By virtue of his profound wisdom, Bezalel succeeded in erecting a sanctuary which seemed a fit abiding-place for God, who is so exalted in time and space (Exodus R. 34:1; Numbers 12:3). The candlestick of the sanctuary was of so complicated a nature that Moses could not comprehend it, although God twice showed him a heavenly model; but when he described it to Bezalel, the latter understood immediately, and made it at once; whereupon Moses expressed his admiration for the quick wisdom of Bezalel, saying again that he must have been “in the shadow of God” (Hebrew, “beẓel El”) when the heavenly models were shown him (Numbers 15:10). Bezalel is said to have been at least thirteen years of age when he accomplished his great work (Sanhedrin 69b); he owed his wisdom to the merits of pious parents; his grandfather being Hur and his great-grandmother Miriam, he was thus a grandnephew of Moses (Exodus R. 48:3, 4).

    INNOVATION AND CREATIVITY. The same Spirit that was at the beginning of creation, is the same Spirit that is placed in Bezelel and is the same spirit that is in each of us. (RUACH-ELOHIM – if you’d like to Google a little)

    So what does this mean for church leadership?

    Innovation and creativity are important in church leadership for several reasons:

    1. To keep the church relevant and engaging: Innovative and creative approaches can help the church stay relevant and engaging in a rapidly changing world. This can help the church attract new members and keep current members engaged and invested in the church’s mission.
    2. To adapt to changing circumstances: Innovation and creativity can help the church adapt to changing circumstances, such as the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. This might include finding new ways to connect with members and deliver services, or developing new programs and initiatives to meet the needs of the community.
    3. To better serve the community: By thinking creatively and innovatively, church leaders can identify new ways to serve the community and meet the changing needs of those around them. This might include developing new outreach programs, partnering with other organizations, or finding new ways to address social issues.
    4. To foster spiritual growth: Creativity and innovation can help church leaders find new ways to engage and inspire members, which can lead to deeper spiritual growth and connection to the church.
    5. To attract new members: By embracing innovation and creativity, the church can become a more attractive and welcoming place for new members, particularly younger people who may be looking for a fresh, relevant approach to faith.
    6. To foster collaboration and teamwork: Innovation and creativity often involve collaboration and teamwork, which can help church leaders build stronger relationships with one another and work more effectively as a team.
    7. To inspire and motivate: Creativity and innovation can inspire and motivate church leaders and members alike, leading to greater energy and enthusiasm for the church’s mission.
    8. To better use resources: Innovation and creativity can help church leaders find more efficient and effective ways to use resources, such as time, money, and personnel, leading to a more impactful and sustainable ministry.
    9. To stay true to the church’s mission: By embracing innovation and creativity, church leaders can stay true to the church’s mission and values while also adapting to changing circumstances and the needs of the community.

    See soon soon for part 2…

    Grace and peace

    Dean