Why Should a Church Use Social Media?

Why Every Church Needs Social Media

Picture this: You’re walking into your favorite church, the one with the warm smiles, the uplifting worship, and the sermon that always feels like it’s speaking directly to you. Now, imagine you’re sitting at home one Saturday morning, scrolling through your social media feed. You see a post from your church. It's not just any post—it’s a video of that pastor you love, sharing an inspirational quote or an upcoming event. You pause, click on it, and before you know it, you’re caught up in everything your church is doing. You get excited about that upcoming youth retreat, or you feel moved to donate to a local cause they’re supporting.

Without social media, this moment wouldn’t have happened. Churches that embrace digital platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter are able to create deeper connections with people. But why should your church use social media? Let’s dive into the why, using a little storytelling to guide the way.

The Church That Wasn’t on Social Media

There was once a small church in a town that loved to gather on Sunday mornings, sing hymns, and listen to sermons that resonated deeply with their community. Everyone knew the church’s doors were always open. But as the years went on, they noticed fewer and fewer new people were walking in. They still had their loyal congregation, but the younger crowd? They just weren’t showing up. The church did the best they could to get the word out. They’d post flyers, put announcements in the local paper, and even have a sign out front. But despite all that effort, it seemed like people just weren’t getting the message.

Then, one day, the pastor decided to give social media a try. They started by posting Bible verses, inspirational quotes, and updates on upcoming services. It wasn’t long before they noticed a change. Families who hadn’t attended in years started to pop up again. New faces came to Sunday services because they saw the church’s posts online.

The pastor realized they had missed out on something that could’ve been bringing in new people all along. Social media wasn’t just a tool—it was a bridge to their community. The doors to the church opened in ways they never expected, just by reaching people where they were already spending time—on their phones.

Social Media Is Like the Modern-Day Church Bulletin Board

Think of social media as your church’s digital bulletin board. Back in the day, you would hang up announcements about Sunday school, Bible study, and upcoming potlucks for everyone to see. Now, your bulletin board can reach an audience far beyond the walls of your church building. Instead of hoping people walk by and notice your poster, you can directly engage with them online, where they are already spending their time.

Here’s the kicker: Not only can you post updates, but you can interact with people, build a community, and even invite them into your virtual space. You can “see” the people who like, comment, or share your posts—making the interactions more personal. Social media is like a modern-day fellowship hall where people from all walks of life can come together, talk, share their thoughts, and feel a part of something bigger.

Why Social Media is a Game Changer for Churches

1. Expand Your Reach

A church that isn’t on social media is missing out on a huge opportunity. According to Pew Research, 72% of American adults use some form of social media, and that number is even higher among younger people. This means your church has the potential to connect with thousands of people beyond your local community.

Here’s a quick reality check: More people are online now than ever before, and the younger generation? They’re not looking for you in the local newspaper. They’re scrolling through their social media feeds. If your church isn’t online, you’re invisible to a large part of the population.

2. Engage with Your Community in Real-Time

Social media isn’t just for sharing your events—it’s about engaging with your community. Whether it’s liking a post, responding to a comment, or joining a conversation, social media allows your church to be more than a place where people show up once a week. It’s about staying in touch and connecting in real time. You can ask questions, post Bible verses, or even share live updates during a service.

For example, Facebook Live has become a game-changer for churches. It allows churches to broadcast services, special events, and even impromptu messages to reach anyone who can’t attend in person. People who may be sick, busy, or living far away can still be a part of the congregation in real-time, making them feel seen and valued.

3. Create a Virtual Fellowship Space

Social media offers a sense of community, even if people aren’t physically present at church. Your Facebook group or Instagram page becomes a space for people to interact and engage with your church’s message. Think of it as your virtual fellowship hall. People can share prayer requests, comment on Bible verses, or ask for support. Your church’s social media platform can be a space to uplift and encourage people throughout the week.

Remember, it’s not just about the weekly sermon—it’s about creating ongoing touchpoints that keep people engaged and connected to each other and to God.

4. Show the Human Side of Your Church

Too often, churches focus on sermons and services but miss out on the opportunity to show the human side of their ministries. People want to connect with real people, not just a building. Social media is the perfect platform for showing that side of your church—whether it’s sharing behind-the-scenes photos, spotlighting church volunteers, or even showing the fun moments that happen outside of services.

For example, maybe your church had a volunteer group go to a local shelter or organize a food drive. Posting about those moments shows people that your church isn’t just about attending services; it’s about making an impact on the community. And people are drawn to that.

5. Attract New Members

Studies show that 59% of people say social media helps them feel connected to the church. Think about it: If someone is thinking about visiting your church for the first time, they might Google it first. What do they find? A Facebook page with photos of the people they’ll be joining, a website link, and maybe even a live video of a recent service. If that’s not inviting, I don’t know what is.

Being active on social media helps attract new members, especially if they’re scrolling through their feed and see something that speaks to them. The church could have an event, a Bible verse, or an encouraging post that catches their eye and gets them to say, “I want to check that out.”

Biblical Encouragement for Social Media

The Bible tells us that we should go into the world and spread the good news. Matthew 28:19 (NIV) says, "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations..." Social media is one of the best ways to fulfill this mission by reaching people beyond your immediate area. Social media allows you to share the Gospel message globally, without needing to leave the comfort of your own community.

Also, in Romans 10:14 (NIV), it asks, "How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard?" Social media bridges that gap—giving everyone an opportunity to hear and learn about the faith, whether they’re in your neighborhood or across the world.

Get Your Free Online Presence Analysis Today!

The importance of social media for churches can’t be overstated. It’s more than just a way to share photos or keep people updated on events—it’s a way to engage your community, attract new members, and fulfill your calling to reach the world with the good news.

But if you’re not sure where to start, don’t worry! We’re here to help. Get a FREE Online Presence Analysis and see how your church can improve its social media strategy. This analysis will give you personalized recommendations on how to enhance your church’s online visibility, attract new visitors, and build stronger connections with your community.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to take your church’s message farther than ever before. Get started today and let us help you make an impact—online and offline.

Click here for your Free Online Presence Analysis.