The Mesh Strategy - Online Ministry - May 2025

Thaddeus Sieverding
Jun 5, 2025
2 min read

Mastering Your Church’s Digital Presence

Our monthly online ministry newsletter.

Staying Authentic: Social Media Without the Catfish

It’s easy to get swept up in social media trends. The catchy audios, the trending challenges, the fast shifts in what gets seen. But in the middle of all that noise, it’s essential to stay grounded in your why—and more importantly, your who.

Start with your audience—not the algorithm.

Before posting your first reel or graphic, take a step back and ask: Who are we really trying to reach? For churches, this question can get layered. Your current congregation might not reflect your full community. And that’s okay—but it means you need to be thoughtful.

For example, your pews might be filled with elderly members, but your neighborhood could be full of young families or early retirees. Your social media shouldn’t ignore either group—it should build a bridge between them.

Reach forward, not away.

If your local community is made up of new parents and young professionals, you might lean into platforms like Instagram. Think about themes that resonate with that stage of life—belonging, inclusion, partnership, the fruits of the Spirit within family life.

But don’t forget your current members. Their wisdom and presence are a strength, not something to hide. What if you featured the voices of older members sharing advice, encouragement, or reflections? You’d be offering something real and valuable—and building trust with potential newcomers.

Authenticity builds connection.

It’s tempting to make your church look younger, trendier, or louder than it really is. But that kind of online “catfishing” backfires. People don’t come to churches for polish—they come for belonging. They’ll feel it when your social media reflects real people, real values, and real community.

The takeaway:

Trends come and go, but authenticity sticks. Let your social media reflect both who you are and who you’re called to reach. That’s where connection happens—and where real growth begins.

June Content Calendar

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Online Ministry Bonus Tip: Show the People, Not Just the Programs

One of the easiest ways to build authenticity? Feature real faces. Post photos of actual members (with permission), share short quotes from their lives, or highlight behind-the-scenes moments from your community. People connect with people—not flyers and stock images. When your audience sees real folks living out their faith, it builds trust and curiosity in a way no trend ever could.