Supporting Congregations as They Connect, Inform, and Inspire Online

Here are some best practices to consider:

Mobile-friendly. Most searches will be made on a smartphone. This makes having a responsive website essential. This changes how the site loads on a smartphone compared to how the same website looks on a computer, and it’s readily available whether through a WordPress site, Wix, or another service.

Your home page must have the following. Having this information repeated in the footer of every page on the site is also helpful.

• church name (be sure to use “Episcopal” in the name)
• full church address (including state and zip code)
• phone number
• email address
• worship times

Your website should be relational. All pictures should be of your people and your buildings, rather than stock photos. There should be stories about your parish. What is your parish known for in your community? What do you want the community to know about your parish? What makes your parish special?

Update your website regularly. If your worship times are changing for a holiday – make sure you list the correct time. If you offer online worship, make the latest videos available. If you change your contact email, make sure you edit your site. Feature special seasonal events or opportunities.

Offer online giving opportunities. There are many companies that provide online payment services you can easily embed on your site.