Category: Communication Directors
SMS text messaging, short and long codes explored
By Jason Alexis | February 14, 2018
There’s a lot of discussion about which of the two opt-in choices is better—shortcodes or longcodes. Just in case you are new to all this… Members and visitors must opt-in to be able to receive text messages sent by service providers. To do this, most service providers use what are called ‘shortcodes’ or ‘longcodes’. Shortcodes,…
Case study: Tommy Carreras, Group Director
By Jason Alexis | October 16, 2017
In this spontaneous, email-based interview, we looked at how Mission Church is using digital tools to connect with people in an authentic way. This is how Mission Church 10x its ‘personal factor’. Mission Church in Ventura, CA offers practical Bible teaching and authentic worship in a creative, welcoming environment. Tommy Carreras is their group director.…
Why cloud based text messaging solution trumps other applications like Skype, iMessenger, WhatsApp, etc…
By Jason Alexis | February 14, 2017
Using a cloud-based app allows you to extend the application and integrate with other tools that you are using.
3 Things the Top Churches are Doing Now
By Jason Alexis | February 14, 2017
Texting DOES work and IS effective, provided your church knows how to use it AND you have a text messaging system that has the elements you need. Many systems include modules so you can do the things you should be doing now.
Are you using texting in churches? Here are top 3 things you should already be doing
By Jason Alexis | February 14, 2017
If you are already using texting, then you are probably already doing these 3 things. If you are new to using texting, here are the top 3 activities most churches should be doing to get started. I. Sharing Sending emergency updates, news updates and newsletters: One of the main reasons for using SMS messaging is…
Text vs. Email vs. Push
By Jason Alexis | January 24, 2017
Many pastors, church leaders and ministers face the same problem: how to quickly communicate important information to your entire congregation. In the past, there were easy, straightforward solutions. You could send something in the mail, hand out a note at church, or call people. There was a time when writing a letter was the easiest…
So, texting in churches? Where are we now?
By Jason Alexis | January 24, 2017
You’ve most likely heard A LOT about including text messaging as part of a church communications plan. Some of what you’ve heard is in favor of including texting and some is against. It can seem a bit confusing. As a result of the confusion, You might not be using text because you mistakenly think it…
Church Data capture (FKA Autoresponder): chat bots that boost communication
By Jason Alexis | November 21, 2016
We share your communication challenges. Having been a church communicator, I’ve been there, trying to make contact, whether it’s a first-time chat with guests or sending relevant information to existing members. We have seen that the best communication strategy is to have a variety of options which can be suited to your audience. So, paper…
Turning “On” your Offline Church
By Jason Alexis | January 20, 2016
What’s next in the world of churches, marketing and technology in 2016? Two words: Church Online. Not to be confused by the phrase ‘Online Church’. Keep reading… You may have heard the term Online Campus and you’re likely to have heard the phrase ‘Internet church’, as well. Many top churches have already set the tone…
Case Study: UBC Makes Effective Use of Text Messaging to Reach Its Congregation
By Jason Alexis | January 11, 2016
Over the past decade, United Baptist Church (UBC) in Hempstead, NY has been developing a digital communication strategy, to grow their church. Their main communication channels include a mobile app, a website and a Facebook page. They also utilize the PastorsLine (formerly crossMRKT) text messaging service. When Pastor Sedgwick Easley first arrived at UBC, the…