What Even is Digital Marketing?

Apr 24

Written By Emily Koskinen

Digital marketing might sound like a corporate buzzword, but at its core, it’s something churches already do: communicate a message and invite people to respond.

In simple terms, digital marketing is using online tools to reach people—to connect, inform, and invite. It’s how businesses grow, movements spread, and yes, how churches can extend their mission beyond the building.

So, what exactly does digital marketing include?

Here are the key elements :

1. Your Website

Your digital front door. This is often the first place people check when looking for a church. A well-designed, easy-to-navigate website with clear service times, next steps, and your heart for ministry is foundational.

2. Social Media

Platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube allow you to connect with your community in real time. Sermon clips, stories, event invites, and testimonies all help people stay engaged throughout the week.

3. Email & Text Campaigns

Email newsletters or text reminders keep your people informed and invested. When used well, they can guide someone from visitor to regular attender to fully involved.

4. Online Ads

Google ads, Facebook ads, and other forms of targeted outreach help you reach people who may be looking for a church, struggling with life questions, or searching for hope.

5. Search Engine Optimization (SEO)

This helps your church show up when someone types “church near me” or “kids ministry in [your city]” into Google. SEO ensures your digital presence is findable, not buried.

6. Content Creation

Whether it’s sermon blogs, podcast episodes, or reels, this is about creating valuable, shareable content that teaches, encourages, and spreads your message.

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And…here is why it matters for ministry :

Digital marketing isn’t about hype or sales—it’s about intentional communication. It helps your church’s message show up in the places people are already looking. It builds connection, earns trust, and creates open doors for life-changing encounters with Jesus.

At Churchful, we don’t use digital tools to promote a brand—we use them to amplify the gospel. Because what your church carries is worth sharing—and people need to hear it.

Emily Koskinen