Essential Elements of an 'I'm New' Page
When my fiancé and I were in the process of looking for a new church, we felt intimidated by the prospect of getting connected and finding the right fit for us. What helped us make our decision was how personable our church’s website was in welcoming us and guiding us through the process of getting involved – we knew what to expect, heard our Pastor’s testimony, and felt reassured about taking that first step!
In today’s digital age, your church website often serves as the initial point of contact and can make or break that crucial first impression. According to a recent study by Lifeway Research, a staggering 63% of churchgoers say a church’s website is important in their search for a new church.
Nine times out of ten, new visitors tell me our website is what sealed the deal for them to worship with us.
Like a beacon in the dark, guiding website visitors towards a warm welcome, a dedicated ‘I’m New’ page is an excellent way for you to start building a relationship with potential visitors before they even walk through your physical doors. This page should serve as a comprehensive resource, proactively addressing common questions and concerns that first-time visitors may have before their initial visit. By providing this one-stop information hub, you can create a seamless and inviting online experience for newcomers.
Here are some key elements to include on your ‘I’m New’ page:
Video from Your Pastor or Church Leader
A warm, personal welcome from your pastor or church leader can go a long way in making visitors feel at ease. This video should introduce your church’s vision and mission while extending a heartfelt invitation to visit.
A Brief Overview of Your Church’s Beliefs and Values
Provide a concise yet informative overview of your church’s core beliefs, values, and mission. This helps visitors understand if your church aligns with their spiritual needs.
“What to Expect” Section
Address common concerns that first-time visitors may have, such as what to wear, where to park, and what to expect during the service. Providing these details can help reduce anxiety and make visitors feel more comfortable.
Service Times and Formats
Clearly list your service times and formats (e.g., traditional, contemporary, or blended worship styles). Additionally, include information about childcare and youth programs, as this is often a consideration for families.
Directions and Map
Make it easy for visitors to find your church by providing clear directions and an embedded map. This simple yet crucial information can alleviate stress and confusion for first-time guests.
Recent Sermons and Sermon Series
Offer access to recent sermons or sermon series, giving visitors a glimpse into your church’s teaching style and content. This can help them determine if your church is a good fit for their spiritual growth.
Upcoming Events Calendar
Showcase upcoming events, activities, and service opportunities. This not only keeps visitors informed but also encourages engagement and involvement from the start.
Links to Ministries and Groups
Highlight the various ministries and small groups offered at your church. This helps visitors identify potential areas of involvement and connection based on their interests and life stages.
Contact Information and Prayer Request Form
Facilitate two-way communication by providing contact information and a prayer request form. This allows visitors to connect with your church, ask questions, and share their prayer needs.
By incorporating these elements into a comprehensive ‘I’m New’ page, you’ll create a welcoming and informative hub for potential visitors, addressing their questions and concerns before they even step foot in your church.
The ChurchSpring Advantage: Streamlining the Process
First impressions are crucial, and your church website plays a pivotal role in shaping those impressions. By following the strategies outlined in this article and leveraging the power of ChurchSpring’s platform, you can create a church website that truly welcomes and embraces new visitors!
With ChurchSpring’s church website builder, you’ll have access to intuitive templates to seamlessly display your latest sermons, an integrated events calendar to showcase upcoming activities, and built-in mapping tools to guide visitors straight to your church’s doors. Our all-in-one platform takes the guesswork out of building an informative and engaging online presence tailored to your church’s unique needs.
So, what are you waiting for? Take the first step towards a more welcoming online presence by scheduling a free demo with ChurchSpring today! Let us help you create a digital front door that invites newcomers in with open arms.
