Thursday’s lunch and learn session on technology and social media use within churches introduced attendees to the impact social media can have on ministry relations. Although challenging at times, this critical component allows congregations to increase visibility, reach new people, and inform communities of events and programs.

In today’s world, effective social media is as a key component of visibility and communication with varying approaches depending on target audiences. Successful implementation of social media use describe the goals and vision of your church. Many churches have appreciated the added value social media can bring.

“Your church needs to know who you are and what you’re trying to say about yourself,”said John Haney, senior training and development specialist with United Methodist Communications. “Communicating the story of your church is the most important piece.”

Haney described the accessibility of Facebook and the use of boosting posts. Facebook allows users to increase interactions and views of a post or webpage with an allocated budget. Boosting allows users to reach an intended audience beyond those already in connection with the church. Other platforms such as Snapchat and Instagram are audience based and are more community oriented rather than informational or used for advertising.

Haney also introduced those in the session to ResourceUMC, a platform provided by the United Methodist Communications department to agencies within the denomination.

Informative sessions such as social media for churches allows clergy and lay members to be immersed in opportunities to share, discover, and grow ministry within their communities. Lunch and Learn sessions provide valuable conversation and discussion about critical components of ministry opportunities. Attendees were able to learn techniques and gather resources to better equip staff and volunteers of their home congregations to reach well beyond the walls of the church building.