Creating a marketing plan might not be the first thing church leaders think about. But if you want your church to grow, reach new people, and better serve your community, it’s an essential tool. Done well, a church marketing plan isn’t just about promotion. It’s about intentionally sharing the gospel in ways that are clear, relevant, and welcoming.
Here’s how to build a simple, values-led church marketing plan tailored for churches across the UK.
1. Start With Your “Why”
Before you create posters or post on Facebook, ask:
Why does your church exist? What’s your mission? Who are you trying to reach?
Without a clear sense of purpose, your marketing will lack direction.
Write down:
- Your church’s vision and mission statement
- Your core audience (e.g. local families, students, older adults, newcomers to faith)
- Your primary goal for the year (e.g. increase Sunday attendance, grow small groups, launch a new outreach)
2. Audit What You Already Have
Take stock of your current communication channels:
- Website (Is it up to date? Mobile-friendly?)
- Social media (Are you active? Is your message clear?)
- Printed materials (flyers, signage, welcome packs)
- Email newsletter or WhatsApp group
- Livestream or podcast content
Be honest. What’s working? What’s outdated? What could be improved?
3. Set SMART Goals
Your goals should be:
- Specific: “We want to grow our email list by 100 subscribers.”
- Measurable: “We want 20% more attendance at Easter.”
- Achievable: “We’ll post 3 times a week on social media.”
- Relevant: “We’ll focus on reaching young families in our neighbourhood.”
- Time-bound: “We’ll evaluate progress in 6 months.”
4. Choose Your Tools and Channels Wisely
Don’t try to be everywhere. Focus on where your people are.
For most UK churches, the best mix includes:
- A well-maintained website
- An active Facebook page or group
- A monthly email newsletter
- Occasional printed invites or local outreach materials
- Event pages for special services on platforms like Eventbrite or local forums
5. Plan Your Content Around the Church Calendar
Use the church year to structure your communication plan:
- Advent and Christmas: Invite people to carol services and share hope.
- Lent and Easter: Focus on reflection, testimony, and new beginnings.
- Summer: Share community events and kids’ activities.
- Autumn: Relaunch small groups, Alpha, or a new sermon series.
Create a simple spreadsheet or calendar with:
- Topics
- Deadlines
- Responsible team members
- Channels (e.g., website, Facebook, print)
6. Measure and Adjust
Every quarter, take time to review:
- Website traffic and social media engagement
- New visitors or responses to outreach
- Feedback from congregation and community
- What worked, and what didn’t
Marketing is ministry too. Keep listening and adjusting as God leads.
Final Thoughts: Marketing with Mission in Mind
Creating a church marketing plan isn’t about looking slick or competing with other churches. It’s about intentional, missional communication so people in your community know where to find hope, help, and a home.