Is It Really Worth It For My Church To Use Facebook?
by David Miles | February 10, 2012
By now most people around town have heard of Facebook even if they are not using it. But just how significant is Facebook's reach and can it really help me interact with people in my congregation and community? Well, according to the IPO paperwork filed by Facebook, there are currently over 845 million Facebook users, of which 483 million use it daily. That's a pretty substantial user base and the odds are pretty good that many of those 845 million users live near you...and probably even go to your church. Additionally there are 100 billion connection!
These numbers in and of themselves speak to the value of Facebook and its ability to help people connect with friends, family, coworkers and other church attenders. But what are some of the specific ways that I can use Facebook to help my congregation connect and engage in community?
The following are 5 key suggestions for ways your church to utilize Facebook.
1. Promote Events
The more ways you can clearly and creatively communicate information, the more likely people are going to be to remember it.
2. Stir Up Discussion
Whether it is based around a sermon, a cultural issue or just a lighthearted topic, Facebook allows people to engage in conversation all week long, even when they are not physically in one location.
3. Share Media
One of the things people enjoy most on Facebook is sharing and viewing photos and videos, so why not share this type of media from church events. This is a great way to keep people in the loop of what is happening around the church.
4. Get Feedback
Facebook has a polling feature that allows you to ask questions and get feedback. Whether you ask questions about topics for future sermon series, or an idea for an event, this option allows you to collect this type of information.
5. Share thoughts
Your pastoral staff can use Facebook to share thoughts with your congregation throughout the week, not just on Sunday. Whether inspirational, reflective or personal in nature, Facebook is a tool to share this type of content more consistently.
Here's to happy Facebooking!
*Facebook statistics were collected from AOL Daily Finance.
Scott, You are absolutely correct. There are a variety of different tools that could/should be implemented. Facebook is only one of many options for connecting with your congregation and community. By using multiple channels you can more effectively reach your target audience. Just make sure you don't over do it. You don't want to spread yourself too thin. Only use those channels that will be most effective for your context.
Facebook is essential, but is only one piece of the puzzle when it comes to communications. If you really want to get the word out you have to use all the tools in the toolbox. In addition to facebook, it is valuable to establish an email database so bulk emails can be sent out. Church bulletins and newsletters help. Announcements from the pulpit. Multimedia presentations before or after the service. If you rely on one tool only, most folks probably will be in the dark.