The Connected Church: A Social Media Communication Strategy Guide for Churches, Nonprofits and Individuals in Ministry

by Natchi Lazarus

We are in a new era of communication. The internet and social media have changed the way we connect and communicate with each other. As the body of Christ, it is important that we understand these changes, so that we can effectively serve others. Whether you are an established organisation or an individual starting your ministry, this book will help you understand these global, technology-enabled changes and how they impact churches, nonprofits and individuals in ministry. The four-part communication model and the six-step framework presented in this book will help you successfully implement a social media and digital ministry program, laying a strong foundation for the future of your ministry. Section I - Why the Church should use Social In the first section, the book talks about the importance of using digital, online and social communication medium. The book explores the evolution of a new type of audience – the connected audience and helps the reader learn the biblical basis of social media marketing and its relevance to the Great Commission. Section II - The Communication In the second section, the book introduces the four-part communication model. The author lays out a broader vision of a smooth, seamless communication within the Church, as one body using social media and technology. Section III - The Framework for Implementing the Communication In the third section, the book moves from visioning mode to action mode. The author presents a six-step framework as a practical means to implement the communication model in your ministry. This is a hands-on implementation section that examines management strategies, marketing strategies and operational details. Section IV - Future Trends that will Impact the In the fourth and final section, the book returns to a visioning mode as the author identifies key future trends and discusses ways in which churches, nonprofits and ministries can prepare themselves for the future. Foreword is written by Mark W. Schaefer - Social media keynote speaker, college educator, consultant,and best-selling author of six marketing books including Known, The Content Code, Social Media Explained and The Tao of Twitter. Introduction is written by Rev. Sam P. Chelladurai - Senior Pastor of AFT Church. He is one of the most prominent and respected Bible teachers in India.

Genres: Leadership

222 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 8, 2017

Reviews

[Rob Ross · Rating 4 out of 5]

Worth a Second Read

After reading this book a second time I found Natchi Lazarus provided many excellent concepts and ideas. I hesitated to review it after my first reading because I find books written about church and technology come from an institutional church perspective. So, bearing in mind I come from an organic church perspective, if one is willing to adapt concepts many of the ideas presented in this book could work within an phygital organic church network. Personal note: Digital church does not have to be structured as an institutional church in order to reach people for Jesus.

[Michael · Rating 4 out of 5]

The author of this book seeks to create a biblical framework with which to use digital ministry to advance the gospel. The connector church is built upon a framework the author has used for years in his consulting and business work. One of the central premises from the book is the idea that the method we use to present the gospel says a lot about whom we want to reach. It's not just about the message itself anymore; it’s about the medium we use to spread the message.

One of the things that I enjoyed most about the book was the author’s understanding that sometimes, in church work, you don't have a massive staff. He comes from a business world environment where multiple people may work with you to accomplish the task. In the book, he often refers to the idea that you may be the only one in your church working on digital communication. And that's OK, providing that you have the proper framework.

This book offers many action steps to help the church create a unified framework for digital communication. However, the framework can sometimes be exhausting. A few key takeaways in clued defining your “core,” meaning your reason for engaging in digital ministry, and building great cohesion in your digital communication.

[John Richards · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's very interesting to see how social media strategy is really cross-cultural. Lazarus is writing from a context that is completely different from our western context, but it works. And, as a preacher, I like the acronym-based (SPIRIT) model he uses for social media engagement. Overall, the book is easily digestible and comes from someone who knows what he's talking about in terms of social media communications strategy. Pick it up if you're looking at ways to do social media in what Lazarus calls the Connected Church age. You'll benefit greatly from it.

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book had some very good ideas and things to think about.

[Arun Thamizhvanan · Rating 3 out of 5]

Clear steps on how to start and lead an effective media ministry for any NGO. Writing is fluid and easy to follow.

[Amanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great concept if you live in suburbia but not sure how to apply this very well with country living other than to move to suburbia but I love all the book explains and has people doing!

[Cathy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Some good ideas, especially about organizing a social media ministry, but it's scope is so broad that it overwhelms instead of inspires.