Churches Using SMS Text Messaging to Engage Youth Groups (& Entire Congregations)

Churches are now trying to move in another directiontext messages as invasive or too high tech. Even the
to add younger church goers to their flocks.older members of the congregation will soon
Churches are now sending out SMS text messagesunderstand that SMS text messages could change
to get information out and to ask their congregationthe face of the church experience forever. The
questions via text messaging. While some churchespossibilities can be endless by using SMS text
have never latched on to the computer age andmessages for everything from daily devotionals, to
never contemplated sending emails, some churchesactivity updates, to ad hoc giveaways to keep the
have already advanced past the email stage usingcongregation involved.
text messages for churches.Another positive aspect of text messaging for
Text messaging for churches is a new way to staychurches is the process of collections for church
in touch with the congregation that is immediate andprograms or charities. Text messages can be sent
effective.  A pastor can prepare his sermon byout reminding the congregation of a specific charity
sending out a question to his congregation via textor possibly reminders to bring clothes for Goodwill or
and uses their responses in his sermon.  It is a wayToys for Tots. SMS text messages are personal, so
to keep the congregation involved in church, while atit is a great way for churches to engage their
the same time keeping them engaged listening for aparishioners at a higher level.
response they may have given.  It is a great wayThe most apparent group that can be moved to
to get the pastor and the congregation on the samebecome more involved in the church is the young
page.church goers.  As the church utilizes sending and
Mobile marketing companies are utilizing text messagereceiving information via SMS text messaging it will
marketing all the time so why can't churches getteach the youngest members not only more about
their share of pie? Churches can use the textthe church but it will create a feeling of community.
message to increase attendance on Sunday or justThis method of communication is second nature to
ask their congregation what they would like to seetoday's youth, so it will make it easier for them to
that would improve their experience in church.connect with and discuss things with the older church
Older members of the congregation may see SMSmembers.