A local pastor recently told a story about their church’s attempt to build a new church website. A well- intentioned member volunteered to “do the website” for the church. He offered to buy the domain name, create the site, build the pages and maintain the content. The pastor believed it would be a good way to get the church website up and running. And it was. Right up until that well- intentioned member left the church. The church was unable to retrieve the website knowledge and was out thousands of dollars in web expenses that now would be useless to the church.
Many church leaders tell a similar story, and even cringe a little when they hear the word “website”. How many church websites have fallen into the internet abyss because the church doesn’t have the resources or even know how to locate their own domain name? Based on our conversations with pastors and administrators, there are many websites that have suffered the same death. Painful, yes, but it is not a good reason to avoid a website.
In today’s world of technology, people expect to find your church on the internet – both those who are connected with the church and those who are seekers. They are looking for relevant and current information about services, ministries, outreach, etc. As an engaging church, you owe them a website that tells your story and keeps people updated on the pulse of your church. Are you feeling the pain again? Take a deep breath. The good news is that a relevant and compelling website is well within reach.
The Gain
Gone are the days of needing a programmer to design a site from scratch or create content in code. Although there are instances when a web professional is the answer, most churches can have a great site using web based content management software, such as Radius Web Tools.
Think of your web site as a new house that you and your family will furnish. The foundation is in and the framing is complete. All you need to do is decorate. So for your web site this means selecting a design, personalizing it and adding information about your church and activities.
Radius Web Tools provides the look and the function that makes it easy to maintain. The youth leader can upload photos and content of vacation bible school, while the church secretary can create the church e-newsletter, and a media person can add your podcast to the sermon page. All the while, you are in control, even if the contributors change, the website is intact and ready for fresh content.
With easy- to - use features that are geared for church communication, you can maintain a website that is always fresh and vibrant. Your church on the web will be a place for you to connect with your members and community and to educate members.
The folks at AmericanChurch, Inc. have plenty of information to share about creating impact through your church web site. We’re available to walk you through a demo so you can see just how easy Radius Web Tools can be.
Call us today at 1-800 - 446-3035 or visit us at www.americanchurch.com/webtools.axpx.
