When I first embarked on what would become Church Communications, I never imagined that it would evolve into the vibrant, multifaceted organization it is today. It began as a simple Facebook group — a space where a few like-minded individuals could share tips, ideas, and resources for helping churches communicate more effectively. At the time, I had no grand vision of turning it into a business. It was merely a passion project, something I did because I consider communication in the church a critical but often overlooked ministry.
Looking back, I realize that the seeds for Church Communications were planted long before I clicked Create on that Facebook group. My mother ran a Sears store in our community, and I saw firsthand how good communication could build a business and a sense of trust. Yet in the church world, communication wasn’t always given the same care and attention. I was inspired to help change that.
The Shift: Communication Pre- and Post-2020
Before 2020, most churches relied on a few tried and true communication methods: a weekly bulletin, maybe an email newsletter, and Sunday announcements. For many churches, that was enough. There wasn’t a sense of urgency to innovate or experiment with new platforms. That all changed, almost overnight, with the pandemic.
Suddenly, churches were scrambling to figure out how to livestream services, engage their congregations on social media, and manage digital communication channels. As in-person gatherings were restricted, churches had to figure out how to maintain a sense of community and continuity in a virtual space. It was a steep learning curve, and many churches were caught unprepared.
This was where Church Communications came in. What started as a small community rapidly grew as clergy, communication directors, and volunteers across the globe joined to share their struggles, their successes, and their questions. We became a resource, a lifeline for many churches during that challenging time.
Through webinars, workshops, and online discussions, we helped churches transition to digital platforms, not just as a stopgap measure but as a long-term, sustainable way to engage their congregations. We worked with churches of all sizes — some with a handful of members and others with thousands — and we realized that, regardless of size, the challenge was the same: How do we communicate effectively in a way that fosters connection and engagement?
Theological Reflections: Communication as Proclamation
Our work as a Christian organization in church communications isn’t just about mastering the latest technology or platform. At its core, communication in the church is about something deeper: proclaiming the gospel. In John’s Gospel, we are reminded, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” Communication is not a new concept for the church. The church has always been a place where words matter, where the message matters.
But just as the methods for sharing the Gospel have evolved over centuries — from oral tradition to written Scripture, from parchment to print — so too must the church evolve in its communication strategies today. Digital tools, social media platforms, and video content are not distractions; they are modern vessels for an ancient message. That message is one of hope, reconciliation, and love. The method of delivery may change, but the heart of the message remains the same.
That theological underpinning is often woven into our work, though not always overtly. We may be teaching churches how to write effective emails, design websites, or engage on social media, but we are always mindful that the goal is to communicate the life-giving message of Jesus Christ.
Stories of Change: Churches Embracing the Future
One of the most rewarding parts of my journey has been watching churches — many of them small, with limited resources — embrace these new methods of communication and thrive. I remember working with members of a small rural church that had never considered livestreaming its services before the pandemic. Like many others, they were forced to adapt, and they were nervous about it. What if people stopped showing up in person? What if the technology failed?
We walked alongside them through the process, from setting up their first livestream to promoting it on social media. The result was astounding. Not only did their regular members stay engaged, but they also began reaching people far beyond their community — former members who had moved away, people who were curious about the faith but hesitant to step through the doors of a church. What began as a short-term necessity has now become a permanent part of their ministry.
These stories are not unique. We’ve worked with churches that have launched podcasts, built online small groups, and even used text messaging to check in on elderly members who couldn’t attend services in person. It’s been a joy to see how these simple tools helped enable churches extend their reach and deepen their ministry.
Why Communication Matters
In today’s world, attention is one of the most valuable commodities. With so many voices competing for people’s time and focus, the church must be intentional about how it communicates. This is not just a matter of marketing; it’s a matter of mission. When we don’t communicate well, we risk losing the ability to connect with our congregation and our broader community.
One of the things I’ve learned through this journey is that good communication doesn’t just happen. It requires effort, intentionality, and sometimes a little outside help. Churches are often strapped for time and resources, which is where we come in. Our goal isn’t just to give churches a few tools and leave them to figure it out. We want to walk with them, to help them develop a communication strategy that works for their unique context.
Looking Forward: The Future of Church Communications
As we look to the future, I’m excited about the possibilities for church communications. Technology will continue to evolve, and new platforms will emerge. But at the heart of it all, the mission remains the same: to communicate the gospel in ways that resonate with the people we are trying to reach.
We’re now exploring how AI can be used in church communications, creating tools that can help churches generate content quickly and easily. But no matter how advanced the technology becomes, I believe the most important element will always be the human connection. Technology can improve communication, but it can never replace the love and care that the church offers to its community.
A Call to Action
To my fellow church leaders, clergy, and communication directors, my hope is that you’ll see communication not as a burden but as a ministry in itself — one that has the power to transform lives, build community, and extend the reach of the gospel. In this ever-changing communications landscape, remember that you’re not alone. At Church Communications, we’re here to walk alongside you every step of the way.
We understand that the world of digital communication is constantly evolving, and keeping up with these changes can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’re committed to being more than a resource — we’re your partners in ministry. Whether you’re facing a new challenge, exploring a new platform, or simply looking to refine your existing strategies, we’re here to support you through each phase of your communications journey.
Our goal is to provide guidance, support, and expertise as you navigate the complexities of modern church communication. We’re not just here for a one-time consultation; we’re here for the long haul, ready to adapt and grow alongside you as new technologies and communication methods emerge.
If you ever find yourself unsure of where to start or how to proceed, don’t hesitate to ask us. Together, we can ensure that your church’s message continues to be heard clearly and effectively, no matter what changes come our way. Let’s embrace this journey of continuous learning and adaptation, knowing that with each step, we’re working toward more effective ways of sharing the timeless message of hope and love.
Remember, effective communication in the church is not just about keeping up with trends — it’s about fulfilling our mission in the best way possible. And in this mission, you have a dedicated partner in Church Communications. Let’s walk this path together, ensuring that the church’s voice remains strong, relevant, and transformative in our ever-changing world.
Katie Allred is a Guest Writer. She is the founder of Church Communications and currently serves as Director of Curriculum.
