A new decade begins in just a few weeks. Like every new year, it brings excitement, goal setting and blessings ahead. However, a new decade brings even more reflection on where were are, and where we should be heading. Here are some goals that you should include as you plan for 2020 and beyond.

Communication

Traditionally, churches have been behind the times with technology, and it’s been forgiven. However, it’s 2020 and it’s time to step up. If you want to continue to engage your parishioners, you need to meet them where they are. Technology can give you amazing avenues to spread the mission of your parish by emailing and texting inspirational quotes and readings, keeping parishioners up to date on events at the parish, and keeping them engaged with you daily, not just as Mass.

Email and Text

If you do not have email addresses and cell phone numbers for your parishioners, do a parish wide survey and get them. Parishioners will be happy to share with you the best way to connect with them. You can use traditional email to connect with your parishioners, or use tools like Flocknote or Constant Contact which provide better platforms for this type of communication. Email regularly to connect with and inspire your parishioners.

Social Media

Baby Boomers, Gen Xers and Millenials are all on social media, and you should be too! Utilize Facebook, YouTube Instagram and Twitter to connect with your parishioners. Start with one, develop it well, and then expand. Choose relevant, important content that will inspire your parishioners to get involved and participate in your parish.

Giving

Define your mission and your needs. Reach your parishioners on the level that exemplifies to them why they want and need to be supporting you and inspire them to give.

Offer ways to give that are convenient. Few people still write checks. If online giving is not something you offer, this needs to be a priority. Parishioners should have an ability to give regularly via their credit card, debit card, and/or bank account. Add a ‘donate now’ button to your website. Offer QR codes to make direct giving easy.

Thank your donors and keep them informed. There should also be regular updates on your website and bulletin regarding how much you are collecting and where it is going. Donors give to causes they connect with and need to know how they are helping.