6 Marketing & Communications Tools Your Church Probably Isn’t Using (But Should Be)

Most church leaders aren’t short on passion. But when it comes to communication and outreach, many churches are operating with limited tools…and even more limited time.

There’s no shortage of platforms out there, but which ones actually move the needle? Which tools are worth learning and implementing for a busy church team?

Here are six practical marketing tools that your church probably isn’t using but should be. None of them are about being trendy. They’re about being effective and intentional with the message you’re already sharing.

Let’s dig in.

Email Sequences

Automated follow-up that feels personal

Most churches send a weekly newsletter or update. That’s a good start. But automated email sequences take things to the next level.

An email sequence is a set of pre-written messages that go out over time, automatically, based on someone’s interaction with your church. For example:

• A Guest Follow-Up sequence can send a warm welcome, a brief intro to your pastor, a kids ministry highlight, and a clear next step, all spread out over 5–7 days.
• A Post-Baptism sequence can include resources for growing in faith, reminders about small groups, and encouragement to start serving.
• A Giving Journey sequence can help walk people through the heart of generosity and where their contributions are making a difference.

These emails don’t replace personal connection; they support it. Once set up, they run in the background, helping your church stay consistent and clear.

Bonus: Download my free Easter sequence from this past year. It can be adapted to nearly any big church event.

Social Media Automation

Tools to help your team stay consistent (without being glued to a screen)

Social media is often a chore for churches, usually handled by someone already wearing five other hats. And unfortunately, inconsistency makes it hard to build trust online.

That’s where automation tools come in. Platforms like ManyChat, Gain App, and SmarterQueue:

• Schedule posts in advance
• Set up automatic replies for FAQs (like service times or address)
• Route prayer requests or first-time guest questions to the right people
• Reuse evergreen posts

Even with a small team, social automation can help you show up consistently without being stuck on your phone all week.

Lead Generators

You’re already solving problems…this helps people find them

In business, a lead generator is a free resource offered in exchange for contact information. Churches can use the same idea to serve people and start meaningful conversations.

Instead of a generic “sign up for our newsletter,” offer something that speaks to a real need. Think:

• “5 Tips for Parenting on the Go”
• “21 Inexpensive Date Ideas to Build a Healthy Marriage”
• “A 7-Day Prayer Guide for Anxious Times”

These resources can be created as PDFs, emails, or videos. Promote them on social media, your website, or as a follow-up to sermons. They give you a way to start relationships, not just collect email addresses.

Search Engine and AI Search Optimization

Your website isn’t just a brochure…it’s how people find you

When someone types “church near me” into Google or AI-powered tools like ChatGPT or Perplexity, will your church show up?

SEO (Search Engine Optimization) helps search engines know what your website is about. It’s not just about keywords. It includes:

• Accurate service times and contact info
• Pages with helpful, human-centered language
• A clear “Plan Your Visit” page
• Meta descriptions and page titles written in plain, meaningful language

Many AI search tools are pulling from public websites to answer spiritual questions. If your website has articles, resources, or sermons that answer those questions clearly, you’re more likely to be included.

This isn’t about gaming the system; it’s about being visible to people who are already searching for what your church offers.

Invitation Tools

Most people would invite a friend…if they had something in their hand

We say “invite your neighbors” often from the stage, but many churches never equip people to actually do it.

A few tools that make it easier:

• Rave Cards (small invite cards with church info and a simple invitation)
• QR code cards that link to a welcome video or sermon series
• Event-specific invites (Easter, Christmas, parenting seminars, etc.)
• Digital invites formatted for texting or sharing on social media

When you put invite tools in people’s hands, it reminds them that outreach isn’t just for the staff. It’s for all of us.

Online Paid Advertising

More than just “boosting a post”

Some churches have tried Facebook or Instagram ads. Maybe even Google Ads. But without a clear strategy, the results are usually hit-or-miss.

Online advertising works best when paired with a strong message and a specific goal. Here are a few ways churches can use it well:

• Promote holiday services with a “Plan Your Visit” landing page
• Reach local families with VBS or summer camp registration
• Offer a lead generator like a marriage resource or parenting guide
• Remind people about your church with retargeting ads (for those who’ve already visited your site)

A little budget goes a long way, especially when your message speaks directly to what people care about.

Final Thought

Your church doesn’t need fancy tech or trendy tools to make an impact. But with a few simple, intentional systems in place, you can strengthen your follow-up, clarify your outreach, and help more people take a step toward Jesus.

You’re already doing meaningful work. These tools just help more people hear about it and help you serve them better.

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