We discussed the key elements found in the best church websites. Now it’s time to take that question and get a bit more specific in our answer. What kind of actual content must be in a Christian website? What information should be present on every church website? Here’s the top ten.
What Should Be Included on All Christian Websites
- The nature of the Christian ministry. Tell people what your ministry is all about. Is it a church? A mission agency? A Christian speaker? A conference? A nonprofit fundraiser? Be clear as to what the website is all about. In the case of churches, people are usually interested in the affiliation of a church (e.g., denomination) as well as the church’s doctrine. Usually, this information can be found on the “about” page of a church website.
- The location of the ministry. Provide directions to the church. It is best to combine written directions along with an embedded map to the ministry location. Use a tool such as Google maps, which provides an embed code to place your custom map on your church website.
- The phone number of the ministry. Let people get in touch with you! Provide a current phone number.
- The email address of the ministry. Many people who find a ministry on the web will prefer to use email rather than using the phone. Keep an email address listed.
- The social media accounts of the ministry. Many churches are using Facebook and Twitter to keep their members informed. A website should provide a list of such social media forums, providing a link to each one. For example, you can include a Twitter icon, and the words, “Follow us on Twitter.” You should also include a Facebook icon with the words, “Visit us on Facebook.” Learn how.
- What to expect. When people visit a church, they want to know what to expect. It can be an intimidating experience. Should they wear a suit? Bring a Bible? Will they be able bring their young kids? Give all the information that will help facilitate a first-time visitor coming to your service.
- Service times or office hours. For a church website, service times are crucial. This is one of the most looked-for elements of a church website. It should be displayed prominently, either in a link, or (more ideally) on a sidebar that stays consistent throughout every page of the website. Beyond the service times, be sure to provide the office hours of the church.
- A page where members can get involved. A church website is for more than just the church’s first-time visitors. Church members will be frequenting the page to get the information and resources that they need. A “get involved” page is a great way to furnish people with the information they need to know regarding how to get involved in some facet of the ministry.
- Featured media. Most church websites have a place where people can listen to or watch sermons. Provide a “media” page to give access to this information. Learn how.
- Current information regarding ministry events. In keeping with the need to consistently update a church website, provide a page, such as a “Current Events” page. This page should notify visitors about upcoming events. Think of it as an online church calendar. Maintaining a regularly updated “Current Events” page will solidify the reputation of your church, giving people the confidence that your ministry is maintaining its website. Additionally, this page will furnish your church members with a place where they can find out about events such as special services, summer ministries, new schedule, etc. Learn how to add a calendar to your church website.
If there was ever a time to remain or become a Sharefaith member, it is now! Get your church website started.