social media/networking

Posted on August 23, 2012, 1:05 pm | 1 comment
Topics: Social Media
It’s tempting to link all of your social media accounts together. If you post something to Facebook, it’s simple to have it automatically feed to Twitter.  While linking accounts may feel like a way to simplify your work flow, I would argue it’s weakening the community and impact of your social media accounts. Read more »
Posted on August 9, 2012, 12:14 pm | 2 comments
Topics: Social Media
One of the biggest changes Facebook has made in recent memory is the switch to Timeline.  With that came the ability to upload a cover photo that displays across the top of your Facebook Page.  This large, central picture is sure to make a strong first impression to your Facebook friends.  Yet, some churches aren’t utilizing that space the best they can. Read more »
Posted on July 11, 2012, 8:30 am
Topics: Communication
Church Juice, a project of Back to God Ministries, is giving away two $2,000 grants to churches that have great vision for effectively using communications tools to reach their congregations and surrounding communities. We know communications can be the thankless job in a church.  So we want to stand up and say “You’re doing an awesome job! Now, here’s some cash for your next great idea.”  Read more »
Posted on May 7, 2012, 3:15 pm | 6 comments
Topics: Social Media
Churches are increasingly investing more time into social media.  It can be a great way to connect with members, regular attenders and new folks in a place where people are already hanging out.  Whether you’re just getting started in social media or have been at it for awhile, here are three tips for avoiding a few common mistakes. Read more »
Posted on April 5, 2012, 10:38 am
Topics: Social Media
In the church world, there are lots of things we do for the sake of communicating with first-time visitors.  We add snazzy “I’m New Here” buttons to our website.  We create slick brochures as part of a welcome packet.  Now there’s one more thing to add to the list: Facebook Timeline. Read more »
Posted on March 21, 2012, 4:27 pm | 1 comment
Topics: Church Websites, Social Media
Easter is a time of year when people are more receptive to going to church.  And we also know the number one way people find a church is through a personal invite.  So as Easter is quickly approaching, it’s time to make sure you’re equipping your members with ways to share your church Read more »
Posted on March 6, 2012, 3:26 pm | 2 comments
Topics: Social Media
It was rumored for some time, but now it’s a reality.  Facebook has launched the Timeline feature for brand pages.  That includes your church’s page.  Here are some tips to help you get started. Read more »
Posted on February 4, 2012, 4:55 pm
Topics: Social Media
Do any of you use texting in your church? I think it’s a promising idea. Some churches encourage texting during church services, some use it for sending news, encouragement, prayer requests, whatever information they wish to share. What’s going on out there in your world? Read more »
Posted on December 28, 2011, 4:18 pm | 3 comments
Topics: Pastors
I’m curious how widespread Facebook’s influence is in redefining friendship. Several years ago, we would not necessarily have thought of everyone in our online friends list as friends. That doesn’t mean we don’t like them; it’s just that these people are now lumped into a single category Read more »
Posted on December 6, 2011, 10:36 am
Topics: Social Media
An article by Joyce Suh reminds us that being “wired” presents a danger “of gradually cutting ourselves off from the blessing that comes with being face-to-face with another human being and from being face-to-face with God.” As we begin the Christmas season, it is good to remind ourselves of what is the most important in our lives, and to “turn our eyes upon Jesus.” Read more »
Posted on November 8, 2011, 1:07 am | 3 comments
Topics: Social Media
Ever wonder why using Facebook and/or Twitter for your church would be a good idea? Or what in the world would you write about if you set up a Facebook page? Or what if I start using Twitter and someone posts something negative? There’s a webinar on The Network that will help you ... Read more »
Posted on September 10, 2011, 2:50 pm
Topics: Social Media
Those of you who follow The Network may have seen the forum discussion led by Tim Postuma regarding Google’s decision to no longer give Google Apps free to religious organizations. It’s really too bad, isn’t it? Maybe the CRC Network can help to change their minds, what do you think?  Read more »
Posted on August 31, 2011, 2:56 pm | 10 comments
Topics: Pastors
Today I retire. So I’d like to say a thing or two about this venture, The Network, and give you an opportunity to weigh in on its future. We launched The Network on February, 2010, not knowing exactly what to expect. We’ve watched it grow during each one of these last 18 months.  Read more »
Posted on August 29, 2011, 3:22 pm | 2 comments
Topics: Communication, Social Media
Some things never change. Fostering relationships involves building trust, developing rapport, and sharing experiences. But some of the tools for accomplishing this have changed. This is especially true when using technology and the web to accomplish this with kids and young adults. Read more »
Posted on August 8, 2011, 8:41 am
Topics: Communication
How do you connect with church family members? With the missionaries you support? With other partners in faith? We have Skyped with our missionaries several times. They also blog so we can keep up with their doings. Many churches use Twitter, stream their services, post online videos, and more. It makes me wonder, what's next?  Read more »