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Start with Communication

Rohn Gibson

If there’s one area where church tech can save you time, reduce stress, and amplify your mission—it’s communication.

Every church is already communicating. The question is: Is your communication clear, consistent, and connected to your mission?

Whether it’s Sunday bulletins, weekly emails, social media updates, or text messages—every message is an opportunity to invite, encourage, and disciple.

“Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person.”
—Colossians 4:6 (ESV)

But for most churches, communication feels scattered. You’re juggling too many channels, saying too much or not enough, and wondering why people still don’t know what’s going on.

This chapter will help you simplify the chaos. You’ll learn how to:

Use fewer tools more effectively
Establish weekly rhythms that serve both your team and your people
Create messages that actually get seen (and acted on)

Let’s start with a mindset shift.

Communication Is Discipleship

Church communication isn’t just about announcements—it’s about alignment.

Every message you send reinforces what your church values, what matters most, and what people should do next. When done with clarity and consistency, communication becomes one of your greatest tools for discipleship.

A well-timed text message says, “We care.”
A focused email says, “We’re prepared.”
A simple bulletin says, “You belong here.”

Whether it’s digital or analog, communication shapes culture.

“A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in a setting of silver.”
—Proverbs 25:11 (ESV)

The Three Layers of Church Communication

There are three primary layers every church should use consistently:

Platform Communication
Website, app, and in-service slides. These are your always-available, always-visible messages.
Direct Communication
Email and text. These go straight to your people’s inboxes or phones and should be used purposefully.
Social Communication
Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, etc. These are for broader awareness, engagement, and outreach.

When these three layers work together, your people stay informed without being overwhelmed.

Simplify Before You Multiply

The biggest mistake churches make? Trying to be everywhere all at once.

Don’t try to master every platform. Start with what works:

Pick one email system like ChurchSpring Messaging
Use one texting tool
Choose one social platform based on your audience (Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, etc.)

Master one channel at a time before expanding.

A Weekly Communication Rhythm That Works

Here’s a simple rhythm many churches use to streamline their messaging:

Monday: Email Newsletter

Include no more than 3 calls to action
Focus on what’s coming up, not everything that’s happening
Link to your website for more info

Wednesday: Text Reminder

Remind people about small groups, prayer night, or weekend service
Keep it under 160 characters

Friday: Social Post

Highlight Sunday’s topic, kids ministry, or an upcoming event
Use a photo of real people from your church

Sunday: In-Service Slide Loop

Include 2–3 rotating slides before/after service
Don’t overload. Simplicity increases clarity

The Rule of One

Here’s a key principle for effective communication:

One message. One audience. One next step.

Instead of trying to communicate everything to everyone, tailor your message:

Who is this for? (first-time guests, parents, small group leaders?)
What’s the one thing they need to know?
What’s the one step they should take next?

When everything is a priority, nothing is.

Common Communication Mistakes to Avoid

Too Many Platforms: You don’t need to start with a podcast, blog, email, app, Instagram, YouTube, and weekly mailer all at once. Choose two or three that align with your people.
No Consistent Rhythm: If people don’t know when or how to expect updates, they’ll miss them.
Vague Messaging: “Join us this weekend!” is less effective than “Join us this Sunday at 9:00 & 10:45am for a new series: How to Walk by Faith.”