Welcome to the 5-Star Church!
Each Star is represented below followed by a check list of items necessary to qualify for that star.
Media Star
What will they find when they search for you online? As we establish our online presence we must be conscious of the impression of every word and image. Avoid pictures that do not flatter the ministry. Make sure all information is accurate and up to date.
[ ] A Church Website
A website is your ministries digital resume. It is where people will look to find information regarding your ministry, but all to gain an initial impression as to what to expect. Advanced websites allow members to submit forms, give online and watch service videos.
[ ] Online Giving
Online giving is essential, particularly to today’s congregants. Plainly put, many people just don’t carry cash anymore. Online giving also creates an opportunity for members to give, even when they are absent. There are a number of companies including Givelify, PayPal, EasyTithe and more. Choose the company that is best for you. Our help link is for PayPal as it is the most common online merchant service provider.
[ ] A Church E-mail Address
It is tempting and easy to use the churches e-mail address, but it’s is not optimal. If the church changes Pastors, then everywhere they have signed up for anything, it is now obsolete. Every church should have an e-mail address that belongs to the church and the church alone.
[ ] Social Media Presence
These directories are places people go to find a church. They are free and only require you to claim your business and provide up to date information. You won’t be found if you are not listed. If you happen to be listed but unclaimed, many will assume your ministry no longer exists.
You will need to do all three to satisfy this requirement.
Mission Star
What will they find when they search for you online? As we establish our online presence we must be conscious of the impression of every word and image. Avoid pictures that do not flatter the ministry. Make sure all information is accurate and up to date.
[ ] A Community Mission Project
Every church should be feeding, clothing, assisting or helping the community on a regular basis. Your church should have at least one program that is ongoing and not simply an annual event. We grow the church by engaging the community.
Suggestions: Homework Help, Food Pantry, Clothing Bin. You can also sign-up to support an existing ministry in your community.
Ministry Star
The love of Christ starts with how we treat people we encounter. Your church should seek to create an experience that exudes with welcomeness. Greeters are great, but every member should be eager to greet those who enter God’s house.
[ ] Greeter Ministry
The greeter ministry consists of those who welcome members prior to entering the sanctuary and sometimes even the church. They should open doors and assist those who need help, all while sharing a kind word as you enter.
[ ] Follow Up Phone Call
Within 7 days someone should follow up with your visitors by giving them a welcome call. The phone call need not be long or in depth. It can be as simple as thanking them for choosing to share some of their valuable time with you.
[ ] Pentecost Evangelism
Every Pentecost we are encouraged to evangelize our Friends, Relatives, Acquaintances and Neighbors– we call it FRAN. Create an active program that equips members with flyers and invite cards as well as opportunities to distribute them. Some people haven’t come because you haven’t asked them.
[ ] Family and Friends Day
At least once a year, you should have an official Family and Friends Day. Similar to your Pentecost Evangelism Day, this day is about inviting Friends and Family but particularly those who have an attachment to the church but may no longer be members or no longer attend. It is usually followed up with some type of dinner after service.
Music Star
It is important that church music be able to reach multiple generations. This means a strategic combination of hymns, congregations selections, contemporary gospel and sometimes gospel rap.
[ ] Contemporary Music
You must sing at least one contemporary gospel song every Sunday. It should not be something special, it should be part of your normal worship experience.
[ ] Two Musicians
Your church should have at least two musicians. One being a keyboardist, Pianist or Organist and the other being a Drummer. People have come to expect a more dynamic worship experience than decades ago. Simply put, you can never have too many musicians. Make a joyful noise unto the Lord!
Message Star
Powerful preaching is essential to church growth. People come expecting to be taught, informed and inspired.
[ ] Preach A Series
You must preach at least one 2 or 3-part series. Don’t be surprised when you see an increase in attendance. Just like a good TV series, people will come to see hear the next episode. Series also tend to draw visitors and others who may be interested in a particular topic.