A Partnership Rooted in Ministry 

Grace Community Church in Gresham, OR, has been a valued partner church of TouchPoint since 2012. Over the past decade, they’ve grown with the platform—navigating updates, learning new features, and using the system to better support their congregation. While they’ve always leaned on TouchPoint for registrations and people management, Grace has unlocked a hidden gem in the past few years: TouchPoint’s Church Event Ticketing. 

Breaking The Mold With Ticketing 

For many churches, Ticketing is synonymous with concerts or major conferences. But Grace took a more innovative approach. They tapped into TouchPoint’s Ticketing System for events like their Women’s Retreat and Seder Gathering—two ministry experiences that required detailed, customized registration processes. 

Booking Bunk Beds For The Women’s Retreat 

Planning a retreat for over 80 women with unique lodging preferences—right down to top or bottom bunk beds—is no small task. Traditionally, Grace relied on spreadsheets and countless emails to manage room assignments. But in 2023, they flipped the script. 

Using TouchPoint’s Ticketing System, former staff member and current congregant Bekka Lambert, built a digital venue map that replicated the retreat center’s layout. By uploading a scanned version of the camp’s floor plan and placing interactive markers, attendees could book their own bunk beds in specific buildings and rooms. The time-consuming back-and-forth of room swaps and special requests disappeared overnight. 

Community Seating At The Seder Gathering 

Grace also reimagined their Seder Gathering experience, leveraging Ticketing to allow congregants to reserve their exact seat at designated tables. This detail ensured that community groups and families could sit together, creating a more intimate and connected event for nearly 180 participants. 

The flexibility of TouchPoint’s Ticketing allowed Grace to expand the number of tables on the fly as registrations grew—something that would have been challenging with a static system or manual spreadsheet. 

Efficiency And Ownership For The Win 

In both events, Grace Community’s staff emphasized how TouchPoint’s Ticketing System delivered: 

• Time Savings: Eliminated Manual Assignment Of Seats Or Beds
• Ease Of Use: Simple Links Integrated Into Their Church Database/Website
• Flexibility: Ability To Dynamically Add New Seating Or Lodging As Demand Increased
• Data Integrity: Event Records Stayed Within The Same System Used For People Management

While they haven’t yet explored reporting features for follow-up or discipleship tracking post-event, Grace sees potential in using attendance data in the future to deepen ministry efforts. 

Growing With Grace 

In many ways, Grace Community Church exemplifies what long-term partnership looks like. Through the years, there have been staff transitions and ministry shifts—including a renewed focus on deep discipleship in a post-COVID era—they’ve continued to lean on TouchPoint as both a technical solution and a ministry partner. 

“We’re just now seeing attendance and engagement return to pre-COVID levels,” shared Cindy. “With that momentum, we’re investing more intentionally in people—and it helps to have tools like TouchPoint to support that vision.” 

Looking Ahead 

As Grace Community leans into their new discipleship strategy—built on insights from “Emotionally Healthy Discipleship” by Peter Scazerro and “Deep Discipleship” by J.T. English—they’re assessing what programs to streamline in order to focus on meaningful transformation. And while Bekka has decided to step out of her staff role to focus on family, she leaves behind a legacy of innovation that Cindy and the team can build on. 

TouchPoint remains honored to walk alongside Grace Community Church as they pursue ministry with depth, care, and creativity. Their use of our Church Event Ticketing System is more than just a tech success—it’s a glimpse into how software can serve the heart of the church. 

Curious How Church Event Ticketing Will Work At Your Church?

If event planning has ever felt overwhelming or disjointed from your current church management software, we’d love to show you how TouchPoint can help. Let’s set up a time to walk through how our church management ecosystem could elevate more than just the Ticketing experience at your church. Schedule a demo with us!

Want Help Setting Up Ticketing For Your Next Event?

Already a TouchPoint Partner and interested in implementing Church Event Ticketing? Our Consulting Team would love to help you get started—reach out, and we’ll take it from there.

In today’s ministry landscape, many churches are evolving how they plan and execute events. From large-scale productions to intimate ministry dinners, the need for streamlined, cost-effective ticketing solutions has never been greater. For medium to large churches, a thoughtful approach to Ticketing isn’t a logistical choice, it’s a ministry opportunity. 

Why Ticketing Matters in Church Life 

Ticketing might seem like a small detail, but it can have a big impact on how people engage with your church. Whether it’s ensuring a seamless check-in experience or helping your team prepare for the right number of guests, smart Ticketing supports both hospitality and stewardship. More than that, Ticketing can serve as a ministry tool by helping your team: 

• Welcome First-Time Guests With Confidence 
• Manage Capacity For Popular Events 
• Encourage Early Registration And Commitment 
• Track Attendance For Follow-Up And Discipleship 

Use Cases Where Ticketing Shines 

While not every church event requires a ticket, many benefit from it, here are a few scenarios where Ticketing helps elevate the experience: 

• Concerts/Productions: Events like Bellevue Baptist Church’s Singing Christmas Tree use TouchPoint’s reserved seating to ensure community members have a smooth, welcoming experience from the moment they select their seats. For churches putting on multi-night performances, assigned seats can make the difference between chaos and celebration. 

• Conferences And Seminars: Whether you’re hosting a marriage retreat or a leadership workshop, Ticketing ensures that guests know exactly where to go, how to check in, and what to expect. 

• Fundraising Dinners Or Banquets: Table seating and assigned spots help create a sense of intention and hospitality. Churches can combine general admission and reserved seating to accommodate donors and attendees alike. 

• Community Outreach Events: Events like movie nights, food drives, or local performances benefit from smooth, accessible Ticketing, especially if you’re reaching people outside your regular congregation. 

When Ticketing May Be More Than You Need 

Not every church event needs a formal Ticketing process. For informal gatherings like small group socials, potlucks, or drop-in prayer nights, over-structuring with tickets may hinder rather than help. When an RSVP or basic registration form will suffice, keep it simple to preserve a sense of welcome and flexibility. 

Why Churches Should Rethink Third-Party Ticketing 

Many churches default to well-known, mainstream Ticketing platforms. But these come with hidden challenges: high fees, siloed data, and cumbersome integrations that don’t always serve your ministry’s goals. 

TouchPoint’s integrated Ticketing solution is designed with churches in mind. Instead of juggling separate tools or losing valuable attendee data, churches using TouchPoint Ticketing are able to do the following: 

• Build Unlimited Custom Venues: Whether your sanctuary has fixed pews or your gym has flexible chairs, you can build venue plans directly inside your database—no third-party system needed. 
  
• Combine Reserved Seating And General Admission: Customize each event for its unique needs, blending seating options to optimize hospitality and efficiency. 
  
• Sell Tickets Online Or In-Person: Empower congregants to buy tickets from home or allow your front office to handle assisted ticket sales with cash, check, or card. 

• Set Social Distancing Parameters: If necessary to implement a health safety protocol, churches can automatically block off adjacent seats and aisles to keep your attendees comfortable. 

• Access Reporting And Follow-Up Tools In One Place: After the event, easily use attendance data within your church management software to send thank-you notes, follow-up invitations, or personalized discipleship resources.

Are You Spending Too Much On Ticketing? 

Many churches don’t realize how much third-party Ticketing fees are eating into their event budgets. Here’s a quick mental audit: 

• Do you pay a percentage per ticket plus a ticket fee plus a processing fee? 
• Are you spending more than 3–5% of your total event revenue on ticketing? 
• Is your team exporting/importing data just to follow up with attendees? 
• Do attendees ever complain about confusion or friction during ticket purchase? 

If you answered “yes” to more than two, it may be time to explore an integrated, cost-effective solution designed for churches. 

When The Numbers Make Sense: A Cost Comparison 

Let’s say your church is hosting a large event (like a concert, conference, or weekend seminar) and you’re charging $50 per ticket. Based on a recent analysis, TouchPoint Ticketing becomes more cost-effective than Eventbrite once you hit just 50 attendees and begins to outperform Brushfire around 100 attendees. 

At 500 attendees, TouchPoint could save your church anywhere from $400 to over $1,000 in fees compared to Brushfire and Eventbrite. That’s not pocket change, that’s budget that could go back into ministry, staffing, or outreach. 

And that’s only considering the surface-level costs. 

TouchPoint’s real value shows up when you realize the Ticketing data stays within your existing church database. That means your team can follow up more effectively, segment audiences, and even track engagement over time, without exporting and importing from third-party tools. 

It’s also worth noting that TouchPoint offers custom pricing for partner churches, making it even more competitive. Many platforms advertise a 2.9% + $0.30 processing fee as standard, but that adds up quickly—and TouchPoint’s integrated solution frequently beats that, especially at scale. 

Pro Tip: Use Ticketing Data To Identify Ministry Opportunities 

Ticketing Data Isn’t Only For Logistics: 

• See Which Types Of Events Consistently Draw New Visitors 
• Identify Repeat Attendees Who May Be Ready For A Deeper Connection 
• Send Targeted Invites To Under-Engaged Groups (Like Young Adults Or New Parents) 

By pairing attendance with personal follow-up, Ticketing becomes a discipleship strategy, not just a tool. 

How TouchPoint Enhances The Ministry Behind The Event 

TouchPoint goes beyond making events easier to manage. It enables churches to use event data as part of their discipleship journey. When someone attends a ticketed event, that attendance is already part of their engagement history in your church database. 

Imagine this: A new couple attends a Christmas production. You already know their seat number, the night they attended, and the fact that they were first-time guests. That insight helps your team follow up with more intention—maybe a personalized note or invitation to your next newcomers’ lunch. 

This kind of integration is what makes church management software a ministry tool, not just an administrative one. 

A Tool For Today’s Church Ticketing Solutions

As churches continue to navigate digital transformation, Ticketing shouldn’t be an afterthought. It should be intentional, ministry-minded, and designed to fit seamlessly within your existing ecosystem. 

TouchPoint’s Ticketing solution is built to serve churches that are serious about creating excellent, welcoming events without sacrificing stewardship or community. 

So, whether you’re planning a sold-out performance, a heartfelt fundraiser, or a packed-out seminar, the right Ticketing tool can help you elevate your ministry and better serve your people, one seat at a time. 

Want to learn how your church can start building custom venues or simplify your next big event? We’re here to help. Are you a current TouchPoint Partner interested in Ticketing? Contact our Consulting Team for more information. Not a TouchPoint Partner yet, but open to exploring your options? Book a Demo to see for yourself the difference TouchPoint can make for your ministry! 

As churches grow and adapt to meet the evolving needs of their communities, it’s more important than ever to thoughtfully leverage the tools at your disposal. One of the most powerful, and often underutilized, tools is your church’s mobile app.

In today’s culture, where convenience and digital accessibility are expected, a church mobile app should be more than just a digital bulletin board. It should be a true extension of your ministry: fostering connection, discipleship, and action among your congregation.

Why Your Church Mobile App Matters

Your church’s mobile app is a direct line to your people, wherever they are. When used strategically, it removes friction points that might otherwise hinder engagement.

Event Registration And Giving: Instead of asking attendees to visit a website or wait until Sunday, a mobile app allows them to register for events or give their tithes and offerings in just a few taps.

Communication And Notifications: Communications within the app can replace the need for mass emails that often get lost or unopened. Reminders, updates, and urgent messages reach people right where they are.

Staff And Leadership Tools: Ministry leaders can take notes, delegate tasks, and follow up with team members directly from the app—saving time and keeping information centralized.

Imagine a men’s minister grabbing coffee with a new attendee. Between conversations, he can open the app, jot down key points from their discussion, assign a follow-up action to another team member, and review notes for his next meeting—all without needing to return to the office.

Or consider hospital visits. Pastors and care teams can record prayer requests, update the prayer ministry, and note specific needs for families in real-time. Rather than relying on memory or later transcription, the app ensures that vital information is captured and acted upon immediately, bringing timely support to those who need it most.

Key Considerations For Your Church’s Mobile Strategy

When evaluating your mobile strategy, it’s important to ask a few critical questions:

• Are We Directing Our Congregation To Multiple Apps?
• Is There A Single, Centralized Place Where They Can Engage With Our Ministries?
• Do Our Staff And Leaders Have The Tools They Need Within The Same App?

Some churches choose different apps for different ministries or functions, but this can create confusion and hinder participation. Ideally, your church should offer a unified, branded experience—one that matches your church’s look and feel and builds trust through consistency.

A truly effective mobile app isn’t just a mirror of your website that constantly redirects users. It should have built-in functionality: giving, registrations, sermon archives, discipleship pathways, volunteer coordination, and care tracking—all accessible natively within the app experience. When used intentionally, your church’s app provides a unique personal experience that makes congregants feel seen and known.

Ideas To Maximize Your Church App’s Impact

If you’re wondering whether you’re using your mobile app to its full potential, here are a few ideas to spark thought and conversation among your team:

• Create A “First Steps” Pathway: New visitors can download the app and immediately begin a first-time guest journey—learning about your church, signing up for a newcomers’ class, or joining a small group.
• Enable Volunteer Check-Ins: Similar to using Pre Check-In for Children’s Ministry, simplify Sunday mornings by allowing volunteers to start their Check-In process via the app before they arrive to serve.
• Offer In-App Small Group Resources: Group leaders and members can access discussion guides, event calendars, and communicate easily within their group.
• Celebrate Milestones: Use the app to celebrate baptisms, anniversaries, and spiritual milestones with personalized messages.
• Track Care Needs: Ministry leaders can track hospital visits, prayer requests, meal trains, and other care activities, ensuring no need falls through the cracks.
• Promote Immediate Action: After a powerful message on serving, allow attendees to sign up for serving opportunities immediately through the app while the inspiration is still fresh.

Is It Time To Re-Evaluate?

Technology moves fast, and so do the expectations of your church family. If your current mobile experience feels clunky, confusing, or disjointed, it might be time to reassess. An effective church mobile app should:

• Strengthen Community Engagement And Trust
• Streamline Ministry Operations
• Reflect The Excellence And Heart Of Your Church’s Mission
• Be Intentional In Form And Function

Ask yourself:

• Are We Making It Easy For People To Participate?
• Are We Equipping Our Staff And Volunteers To Minister Effectively In The Field?
• Does Our App Reflect Who We Are As A Church?

If your current tools aren’t helping you achieve these goals, consider what a next step might look like.

Upgrading your mobile app experience isn’t just about technology—it’s about ministry. It’s about ensuring that your people can connect, grow, and serve, no matter where they are.

At TouchPoint, we believe a mobile app should support your entire ministry, not just be an add-on. Our app is fully customizable to your church’s brand and seamlessly integrates with your ministry workflows. Whether you’re already a TouchPoint partner or exploring your options, we’d love to help you think through what’s possible.

Learn more about our Mobile App features here.

Your ministry is too important to be limited by technology. Let your church’s mobile app become a catalyst for deeper connection, stronger discipleship, and greater impact.

In today’s church environment, ensuring the safety and security of children during ministry activities is paramount. Implementing an effective Check-In system not only safeguards children but also fosters trust among parents and streamlines administrative processes.  

This comprehensive guide explores strategies for utilizing a church Check-In system, emphasizing children’s ministry while highlighting additional applications across various church events. While many church management softwares have the standard features and functionality that may seem commonplace, we’ve decided to include those “basic” principles and add an “elevated” idea or experience to implement as well. 

1. Facilitating A Welcoming Environment For New Families 

A well-implemented Check-In system serves as a vital connection point for newcomers:  

Basic

Efficient Registration Process: Streamlined Check-In procedures make it easier for new families to register their children, reducing wait times and creating a positive first impression.  

Elevated

Customizable Labels and Branding: Personalized name tags with the church’s branding can make new attendees feel welcomed and part of the community from the outset. 

2. Enhancing Security In Children’s Ministry 

A strong church Check-In system serves as the first line of defense in protecting children under the church’s care. Key components include:  

Basic

Secure Tags for Pickup: Upon Check-In, each child receives a unique identification tag, and parents or guardians are provided with a corresponding tag. This matching system ensures that only authorized individuals can retrieve the child, significantly reducing the risk of unauthorized pickups. 

Elevated

Check-Out Procedures: Implementing a check-out process allows the church to document when a child leaves the premises and with whom. This dual-record system provides a clear timeline of the child’s stay, enhancing accountability and security. 

3. Streamlining Attendance And Data Management 

Beyond security, Check-In systems offer valuable insights into attendance patterns and aid in efficient data management:  

Basic

Automated Attendance Tracking: Digital Check-In systems automatically record attendance, minimizing manual errors and providing real-time data. This information is crucial for understanding participation trends and planning future events. 

Elevated

Bi-Directional Communication: Two-way communication between your church Check-In system and your classrooms allows for a safe, secure, and personalized experience for your families. Utilizing a Check-In dashboard ensures that teachers and volunteers can see at a glance who is in their classroom and who is on their way. It also allows for immediate access to pertinent information, such as emergency contacts and medical alerts.  

4. Expanding Check-In Systems Beyond Children’s Ministry 

While primarily utilized for children’s ministry, you can disable secure tags or labels for other events. Check-In systems can be adapted and leveraged in other ways:  

Basic

Volunteer Coordination: Implementing Check-In for volunteers helps monitor service hours, manage assignments, and recognize contributions, fostering a culture of appreciation and accountability. 

Elevated

Event Management: For events like retreats, workshops, or community gatherings, Check-In systems can register attendees, print name tags, and track participation, ensuring organized and efficient operations. When the Check-In system records attendance, you now have a list of attendees you can communicate with in future follow-ups.  

5. Leveraging Pre-Check And Mobile Features 

Modern Check-In systems offer advanced features that enhance user experience:  

Basic

Pre-Check-In Options: Allowing families to check in before arriving at the church via a mobile app reduces congestion at Check-In stations and provides a seamless experience.  

Elevated

Mobile Integration: Mobile-enabled Check-In allows parents to use their smartphones for the process, offering convenience and aligning with contemporary digital habits. 

6. Enhancing Safety Measures Against Potential Threats 

A comprehensive Check-In system contributes to the overall safety of the church environment:  

Basic

Restricted Access: Utilizing the Check-In system to control access to children’s areas and information ensures that only authorized personnel and parents can enter, preventing unauthorized individuals from gaining access. Maintaining a culture of safety by locking the manned station whenever it’s unattended is vital to protecting your church’s information. 

Elevated

Background Checks: Integrating background checks for volunteers and staff into the Check-In system ensures that individuals working with children have been properly vetted, mitigating potential risks. When a volunteer checks in, have an easily identifiable way to show that a volunteer is up to date on their background check and safety training. 

7. Customizing The System To Reflect Church Identity 

Tailoring the Check-In system to align with the church’s identity enhances cohesion and recognition:  

Basic

Branded Interfaces: Customizing the Check-In interface with the church’s colors, logos, and themes reinforces brand identity and creates a unified aesthetic.  

Elevated

Themed Check-In Stations: Designing Check-In stations to reflect different ministries, events, or seasons adds a creative touch and engages attendees, making the process more enjoyable.  

8. Preparing For Emergencies With Real-Time Data 

In case of emergencies, having accurate, real-time data is crucial:  

Basic

Emergency Notifications: Check-In systems can facilitate immediate communication with parents or guardians during emergencies, ensuring swift and coordinated responses.  

Elevated

Accurate Headcounts: Real-time attendance data assists in accounting for all individuals during evacuations or drills, enhancing overall safety protocols. 

9. Building Trust And Confidence Among Congregants 

A transparent and efficient church Check-In system builds trust within the church community:  

Basic

Parental Assurance: Knowing that the church has implemented stringent safety measures through the Check-In system reassures parents about their children’s well-being.  

Elevated

Community Reputation: A church that prioritizes safety and efficiency through advanced Check-In systems enhances its reputation, potentially attracting more families and attendees.  

Building A Safer, More Connected Church Community 

Implementing an effective Check-In system is a multifaceted approach that enhances security, streamlines operations, and fosters a welcoming environment. By embracing innovative features and expanding the system’s use beyond children’s ministry, churches can create a safer, more organized, and engaging atmosphere for all attendees. Investing in such systems reflects a commitment to excellence and care, aligning with the core values of community and stewardship. 

Is your church Check-In system meeting all your needs, or are you feeling limited by its functionality? A secure, efficient, and flexible Check-In process is essential for creating a safe and welcoming environment for families. With TouchPoint’s comprehensive Check-In system, you can enhance security, streamline attendance tracking, and improve communication between parents, volunteers, and staff—all while offering a seamless experience for your congregation. Don’t let outdated or inefficient processes hold your ministry back. Schedule a free demo today and discover how TouchPoint can empower your church with a safer, more connected Check-In experience.  

Bellevue Baptist Church in Memphis, Tennessee, has always had a mission-driven heart, focused on reaching people with the Gospel and equipping them for discipleship. As one of the largest churches in the country, Bellevue Baptist recognized early on that effective ministry requires powerful, adaptable tools—ones that not only streamline church operations but also enhance engagement, volunteer management, and ministry impact. 

What began as an internal need at Bellevue led to the development and release in 2007 of Bellevue Church Management System (BVCMS), a people-centric platform designed for discipleship and ministry tracking. Over the years, this system evolved into what is now known as TouchPoint Software, a robust church management platform that continues to serve Bellevue Baptist and hundreds of other large churches nationwide. 

Bellevue’s relationship with TouchPoint is more than just a software solution—it is a ministry partnership that has grown and evolved to meet the church’s changing needs. Through different seasons of leadership, innovation, and improvement, TouchPoint remains at the heart of Bellevue’s operations, ensuring that no person, volunteer, or ministry opportunity falls through the cracks. 

The Birth Of TouchPoint: A System Built By The Church, For The Church 

In the early 2000s, Bellevue Baptist was growing rapidly, with thousands of members actively engaged in ministries, events, and discipleship programs. However, their existing church management system was outdated, cumbersome, and lacked the flexibility and unity needed to support a dynamic, large-scale ministry. 

After evaluating various out-of-the-box solutions, Bellevue’s leaders realized that no existing platform fully met their needs. Instead of settling for a system that required expensive recurring costs and workarounds, they took matters into their own hands. 

With the help of David Carroll, a Bellevue Baptist member with software development expertise, the church built its own database—one that would be intuitive, accessible from anywhere, and adaptable to new technologies. 

This system, originally called BVCMS, quickly transformed Bellevue’s internal processes. Ministry departments took ownership of their own data, reducing the need for a department of staff dedicated to data entry. Lay leaders were empowered with limited access to member data, allowing them to take more direct responsibility in shepherding their groups. 

“It’s a different way of doing church management,” said Karen Worrell, Bellevue’s Systems Administrator at the time. “TouchPoint allows staff and lay leaders to do ministry on the go. Your minister can take his phone, go to the hospital, find somebody on the app, look at their picture, see their family members, and be prepared to walk into that hospital room.”

BVCMS became an indispensable ministry tool, so much so that other churches began asking to use it. In 2015, the system renamed as—TouchPoint Software—and has partnered with some of the largest churches nationwide since. 

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A Season Of Development: Expanding TouchPoint’s Capabilities 

With a new name, TouchPoint entered a season of accelerated development, adding new features that strengthened its role as a ministry-driven platform. 

Bellevue played a crucial role in shaping the system’s evolution. Their feedback and requests directly influenced new tools, allowing TouchPoint to remain responsive to real-world church needs. 

“I’ve seen a lot of changes in TouchPoint that have been for the better, especially in the last couple of years,” said Nathan Barley, Bellevue’s Minister of Church Data. “Every month, new features come out, and I keep saying, ‘That’s cool. That’s going to be good.’ It’s very impressive and exciting to see the direction the development team is taking.” 

During this season, Bellevue leveraged TouchPoint for major church functions, including: 

• Volunteer Management: Tracking volunteer engagement, ensuring background checks were up to date, and automating onboarding. 

• Event Management: TouchPoint developed an in-database ticketing system, reducing significant costs for Bellevue’s large-scale events like their annual Singing Christmas Tree production. This also allows them to keep their data in-house and available for future use.

• Targeted Communication: With features like mass-texting and segmentation, Bellevue moved away from generic, one-size-fits-all email blasts, instead reaching the right people with the right message at the right time. 

Additionally, TouchPoint’s development team has been highly responsive to feedback, rolling out updates that directly impact Bellevue’s day-to-day operations. 

This period of growth cemented TouchPoint as a system that wasn’t just about administration—it was about ministry enablement. 

A Season Of Improvement: Streamlining Ministry 

While TouchPoint has always been an evolving platform, the current leadership has ushered in a new phase focused on efficiency, user experience, and partner-driven improvements. 

Nathan Barley has seen firsthand how the small, yet powerful refinements TouchPoint is making are transforming Bellevue’s workflow: 

“TouchPoint’s focus on reducing clicks and fixing functionality is really encouraging,” he shared. “Everything is just becoming more streamlined, and that makes a huge difference when you’re managing a church this size.” 

One of the biggest areas of improvement has been automation. TouchPoint has enhanced features like Process Builder, allowing Bellevue to automate steps in volunteer onboarding, membership tracking, and discipleship pathways. 

“The status flag system is one of the best tools for quick visibility on volunteer eligibility,” Nathan explained. “The rings on profile pictures—blue for background checks, magenta for MinistrySafe training—are a simple and clear way to assess a person’s readiness to serve.” 

TouchPoint’s ability to adapt to ministry needs in real-time ensures that Bellevue—and all its partner churches—are always equipped with the best tools for engaging, discipling, and mobilizing their congregations. 

A Partnership Rooted In Shared Mission 

What makes the relationship between Bellevue and TouchPoint so unique is that it’s not just a vendor-client relationship—it’s a true partnership. 

Bellevue’s influence on the software continues to shape its future, ensuring that TouchPoint remains a system built by the church, for the church. The partnership is a testament to how church technology, when created with ministry in mind, can empower churches to serve, disciple, and engage their communities more effectively. 

Senior Pastor Dr. Steve Gaines summarized it best: 

As Bellevue continues to serve Memphis and beyond, TouchPoint Software will be there—powering ministry, strengthening connections, and growing alongside the church in its mission to make disciples. 

Looking Ahead 

The future of Bellevue Baptist and TouchPoint remains intertwined, with both organizations committed to innovation, improvement, and ministry effectiveness. 

As churches grow and evolve, TouchPoint Church Management Software will continue to do what it has always done—listen, adapt, and provide churches with the best tools to fulfill their mission. 

Bellevue’s journey is proof that when church technology and ministry align, the results are transformational. 

Discover What TouchPoint Can Do for Your Ministry

Bellevue Baptist’s journey with TouchPoint showcases how the right church management software can transform ministry, enhance volunteer engagement, and streamline church operations. But every church is unique, and we’d love to show you how TouchPoint can meet your specific needs.

Schedule a free 1-hour Zoom demo today! See how TouchPoint can empower your church with the right tools for discipleship and engagement. We just may be the last ChMS you’ll ever need!

Ensure A Smooth Easter With Effective Volunteer Coordination 

Easter is one of the most significant days on the church calendar. It’s a time when attendance surges, new guests walk through your doors, and your congregation comes together to celebrate the resurrection of Christ. To create a welcoming, organized, and impactful Holy Week & Easter services, churches rely heavily on volunteers. 

Yet, effective volunteer coordination can be a daunting challenge. Between planning, recruiting, scheduling, communicating, and appreciating your volunteers, church leaders often find themselves overwhelmed. A well-structured volunteer coordination strategy can make all the difference. 

This guide will provide church leaders with practical steps to streamline volunteer coordination, ensuring Easter runs smoothly while fostering a culture of service and discipleship. 

1. Plan Early And Strategically 

A strong volunteer effort starts with clear planning. Easter services usually require a higher number of volunteers than a typical Sunday, so outlining roles and responsibilities well in advance is crucial. 

Steps To Effective Volunteer Planning: 

• Meet With Ministries: Schedule time with each of your ministry areas to compile their requests for the Easter season.  

• Assess Your Needs: Take inventory of all the roles that need to be filled (greeters, parking attendants, children’s ministry, hospitality, tech support, etc.). 

• Build a Leadership Team: Assign key volunteers or staff to oversee different ministry areas to alleviate administrative burden. 

• Define Expectations: Each role should have a clear job description, including responsibilities and time commitments. 

• Create a Process: Utilize a system that allows for easy volunteer signups, tracking, and follow-up with potential volunteers. 

2. Recruit With Vision And Purpose 

Recruiting volunteers isn’t just about filling slots; it’s about inviting people into meaningful ministry. Casting vision for why volunteers are needed and how their service impacts the Kingdom of God is key. 

Best Practices for Volunteer Recruitment: 

• Make a Church-Wide Appeal: Announce the need for volunteers during services, in bulletins, and on social media. The most effective way to get buy-in is a call to action from your Senior Pastor during services.  

• Leverage Personal Invitations: People are more likely to serve when personally asked by a pastor, staff member, or fellow churchgoer. 

• Highlight the Impact: Share stories of how volunteering has blessed both the volunteer and those they serve. A testimonial video to show during service can inspire people to join a serve team. 

• Use an Easy Sign-Up Process: A simple online registration system makes it easier for volunteers to commit. Create a QR code that be used across multiple mediums (sanctuary screen, church bulletin, social media, etc.) to reduce friction in the signup process. 

3. Schedule With Flexibility And Clarity 

Managing schedules can be one of the most complex aspects of volunteer coordination, especially when dealing with last-minute changes. 

Tips For Creating A Smooth Volunteer Schedule: 

• Use a Centralized System: A volunteer scheduling tool can automate sign-ups, send reminders, and prevent double bookings. This is the time to reduce data silos and have your whole staff implement the same system so that everyone is on the same page.  

• Offer Multiple Serving Times: Some volunteers may not be available on Easter Sunday but can help during the week leading up to it. Examples may include: setup and teardown team, a landscaping team, or additional administrative support before and after Easter to help lighten the load. 

• Pair Experienced Volunteers with Newcomers: This ensures new volunteers feel supported and learn from those with experience. Something as simple as having premade nametags, lanyards, or your church’s branded “serve” shirt for your team shows appreciation for their service. 

• Have a Backup Plan: Prepare a list of ‘on-call’ volunteers to fill last-minute gaps. Make a request for your congregation to be willing to serve in any area as a floater. (Remember to verify that background checks are in good standing). 

4. Communicate Clearly And Often 

A well-organized volunteer team relies on consistent communication. Keeping volunteers informed and encouraged helps them stay committed and confident in their roles. 

Effective Volunteer Communication Strategies: 

• Send Automated Reminders: Use text, email, or app-based notifications to remind volunteers of their upcoming service times. 

• Provide Training Materials: Share video tutorials, PDFs, or brief in-person orientations to equip volunteers with the knowledge they need to be successful.  

• Encourage Two-Way Communication: Allow volunteers to ask questions and provide feedback by giving them the appropriate contact information (email, phone, text). You can also utilize your church management system for concise and consistent messaging. 

• Host a Final Check-In: A pre-Easter huddle ensures everyone is aligned and prepared. Where should volunteers park? How early should they get there? All this should be clearly discussed to make sure that everyone is on the page and ready to serve your guests.  

5. Show Appreciation And Foster Long-Term Engagement 

Volunteers who feel valued are more likely to continue serving beyond Easter. Expressing gratitude and celebrating their contributions builds a culture of service within your church. 

Ideas for Showing Volunteer Appreciation: 

• Send Personalized Thank-You Notes: A handwritten note or email from church leadership goes a long way. 

• Host a Post-Easter Celebration: Gather volunteers for a special meal or reception to celebrate their efforts. Give out fun and creative awards to those volunteers that went above and beyond.  

• Publicly Acknowledge Volunteers: Recognize their commitment to the Kingdom with a Volunteer Spotlight on social media. This not only shows how much you love and value them but also helps your congregation continue to get to know each other by name and image.  

• Provide Small Gifts or Incentives: Consider offering a small token of appreciation such as a devotional book or church-branded merchandise. 

Elevate Your Processes & Celebrate Easter!

Easter is a prime opportunity to welcome guests, engage your congregation, and ultimately share the Gospel with more people. Volunteers play an essential role in making this possible. Through the implementation of a well-thought-out volunteer coordination strategy, churches can ensure that both volunteers and attendees have a meaningful experience. 

By focusing on planning, recruiting, scheduling, communication, and appreciation, church leaders can create an environment where volunteers feel empowered and eager to serve—not just for Easter but for years to come. 

With the right tools and a heart for ministry, your church can elevate its volunteer coordination efforts, leading to a more effective and impactful Easter celebration. 

Upgrade Your Church Software For A Streamlined Volunteer Experience

Feeling overwhelmed or lacking the right tools to implement these strategies effectively? It may be time to evaluate your church management software. TouchPoint’s Scheduler is designed with discipleship in mind, helping churches eliminate data silos, streamlining communication, and elevating volunteer coordination. Schedule a free demo today and discover how we partner with some of the largest churches in the country to enhance volunteer management!

As the glow of New Year’s resolutions begins to dim, February offers a timely opportunity to refocus on engaging your congregation in meaningful ways. The reality is that whether someone is new to your church or has been attending for years, life happens. People fall through the cracks and we want to offer some insightful ways to understand engagement amongst your community and church. 

Here are practical strategies to foster connection, re-engagement, and a deeper sense of community within your church family. 

Simple Ways To Engage And Re-Engage Congregations 

Create Connection Opportunities: 

Host events designed to draw people in without requiring a big commitment. Examples include: 

1. A Young Adults Game Night featuring board games, snacks, and fellowship. 

2. A Men’s Breakfast with a short devotional and time for sharing prayer requests. 

3. A Service Project with advanced signups to help serve the community.

4. A Ladies’ Craft Night or a family movie evening.  

5. A Worship Night with child care provided.

6. Plus…Use a “Plan Your Visit” button on your website to engage people before they walk in your doors.

Implement A Weekly Process For Engagement: 

Leverage your systems to create a list of people to connect with weekly. These might include: 

• Recent first-time guests. These people may come anywhere from Check-In to Connect Cards. When someone’s data is added to your system, thank them and let them know that you see them. 

• Members who haven’t checked their family in for a service, group, or event in a while. Utilize reports to identify when people are disengaging. Automate as much of the decision-making as possible but never lose the personal touch. Emails shouldn’t be canned but personalized to show how much your church cares about them.  

• Individuals who expressed interest in serving or joining a small group but haven’t taken the next step. A process-building tool in your ChMS should be able to have due dates to give your ministry leaders reminders when a particular step hasn’t been completed.  

• There are many ways to connect: grab coffee with someone, send a thoughtful email, or mail a personalized card to remind them they matter. 

Systems For Preventing People From Falling Through The Cracks 

Church management software can play a vital role in helping you track engagement. Use tools to: 

Pull Reports Regularly: Generate lists of members who haven’t checked in their kids, served, or attended a group in the past 30, 60, or 90 days. Consider why they might be absent and how you can appropriately reach out. Most church CRMs can automatically send a report to the staff to highlight these re-engagement opportunities.  

Set Automated Reminders: Have systems in place to alert leaders when someone’s engagement begins to dip. This makes it easier to act quickly. This can be particularly effective for lay leaders to help your staff keep people connected.  

Encourage Team Collaboration: Assign individuals to specific teams or leaders for consistent follow-up. 

When you proactively track attendance and engagement, you can offer personalized care that demonstrates love and commitment to your church family. 

Reaching The Disengaged With Creative Invitations 

Identifying individuals who aren’t engaged at all can be daunting. Start by reviewing guest sign-ins, online contact forms, and past event rosters. Once identified, extend no-pressure invitations that emphasize fun, community, and belonging: 

• Plan a “Welcome Back Sunday” with a special meal or reception with Pastors. 

• Send personal invitations to low-barrier events like a movie night or outdoor picnic. 

• Host a Ministry Fair where people can learn about serving opportunities or small groups and meet respective leaders. 

Simple gestures like offering name tags at these events can make attendees feel noticed and valued. Plus, these occasions can be great moments to collect updated information through quick, friendly interactions. 

Refining Your Vision For Fully Engaged Followers 

Engagement isn’t just about attendance. It’s about discipleship and transformation. Take time to reflect and pray as a staff on what a fully engaged follower of Jesus looks like in your church. Do they: 

• Attend services regularly? 

• Serve in a ministry? 

• Participate in a small group? 

• Give faithfully? 

• Take on leadership roles? 

Once you’ve defined these markers, share the vision with your team and congregation. Provide clear next steps so people know how they can grow in their faith journey and make a lasting Kingdom impact. 

Leveraging Technology To Enhance Communication And Engagement 

Email tools are invaluable for staying connected. Use these tools to: 

Segment Your Audience: Tailor messages to specific groups—new members, young families, or ministry leaders—to make communications more relevant and engaging. 

Create Appealing Emails: Work with your graphics person to create consistent images that can be used in email templates. A beautifully crafted email can visually and verbally draw people in to discover more about your church’s offerings.  

Evaluate Open Rates and Engagement Metrics: Low open rates or high unsubscribe numbers may indicate outdated contact information. Prompt your team to update records or verify details during personal conversations. 

Automate Follow-Ups: Use email templates to thank first-time guests, share event details, or encourage small group participation. Consistency matters and automation can lighten the load. 

Staying Focused On The Bigger Picture 

Ultimately, engagement is about stewarding the people God has entrusted to your church. By combining creativity with technology, you can: 

• Make informed decisions. 

• Free up time for personal connections. 

• Focus on nurturing discipleship and community. 

Let this February be a month of renewed commitment to your church’s mission. As you implement these strategies, remember the promise of Galatians 6:9: “your faithful efforts will bear fruit in due season.” Stay the course and watch as lives are transformed by the love of Christ. 

Thank you for your commitment and dedication to The Kingdom! If you need to evaluate or update your software to reach your ministry goals, Book a Demo with our team! 

Already a part of the TouchPoint Family and would like more information on Engagement Insights through TouchPoint’s church software? Save your seat at February’s Webinar to hear from Andrew Triplett, TouchPoint’s Head Of Consulting, to understand how Engagement Insights can support your mission.

Introduction 

First Baptist Dallas, a historic and thriving church in the heart of Texas, has served its community for over a century. With a large congregation and diverse ministries, maintaining deep connections and fostering meaningful and personal engagement across their membership is no small feat. In spring 2023, the church transitioned to TouchPoint to help them achieve their goals of enhanced connections and streamlined ministry operations. 

In this case study, we explore how Justin Krieg, Director of IT, and his team, utilized TouchPoint to improve First Baptist Dallas’s engagement, empower lay leaders, and drive discipleship efforts. 

The Challenge: Managing Engagement In A Large Church 

After reaching the limits of their previous church management system, First Baptist Dallas decided to upgrade to TouchPoint. This required careful planning and adaptation. The size and complexity of First Baptist Dallas posed unique challenges, but the leadership team quickly recognized TouchPoint’s potential to streamline operations and elevate member engagement. While initial hurdles were natural, the church’s commitment to embracing the new platform set the stage for long-term success. They brought Justin on initially as the Engagement and Analytics Associate to help achieve transitional success.

The Solution: Leveraging TouchPoint To It’s Full Potential

Change can be difficult, but the responsiveness from TouchPoint when any speedbumps arose showed that they could be counted on. Justin reflected on his thankfulness for their partnership with TouchPoint: 

“The work that was put in, learning the system and working with TouchPoint’s Consulting Team to get good processes in place, deserves a ton of credit because they’ve invested a lot in spending time with First Dallas to get trained up and get our system in a good spot.”

1. Building a Culture of Adoption 

Recognizing the importance of widespread adoption, Justin’s early efforts focused on showcasing the value of TouchPoint to ministry departments. By demonstrating how the platform could enhance their workflows and engagement efforts, Justin and his team successfully fostered a culture of enthusiasm around the new system. Whether it was training on email communication features or utilizing their Powered By Text integration, they were able to get their congregants to engage with them and deepen discipleship efforts.

“We’ve been able to shift mindsets and win over ministry departments that weren’t initially trained very well on TouchPoint. Learning TouchPoint and implementing improved processes has yielded a lot of fruit.” 

2. Engagement Score: A Tool for Meaningful Discipleship 

A feature that Justin emphasized was TouchPoint’s Engagement Score. God put on his heart Hebrews 10:24 as the driving factor behind the engagement score. He shared how this tool allowed their team to track and analyze member involvement effectively: 

“We’re accomplishing exactly this verse with the engagement score by knowing how our people are engaged in the spiritual disciplines that we’re called to do. By knowing that, we can, in fact, encourage them on towards love and good deeds.” 

Justin saw Engagement Scores as a way to measure how members were participating in spiritual disciplines and discipleship opportunities. By generating monthly reports for their Executive Pastor, they could pinpoint individuals whose engagement had significantly increased or decreased. This data empowered their ministry leaders to: 

• Celebrate individuals growing in their faith. 

• Reach out to those who were disengaging. 

• Tailor discipleship efforts to meet the needs of their congregation. 

3. Empowering Lay Leaders 

First Baptist Dallas took a unique approach to engagement by extending TouchPoint access to their Sunday school care group leaders. Each Sunday school class is divided into care groups of 10-15 people, with lay leaders tasked with monitoring attendance, reaching out to absent members, and logging interactions in TouchPoint. 

Justin explained the importance of this system: 

“If you’re deemed as a leader in our Sunday school class, then we allow you to have access to TouchPoint. Primarily for the purpose of outreach and logging notes. That’s our accountability system to make sure that people are getting reached out to.” 

By equipping lay leaders with the needed tools, the church created a structure that made discipleship efforts more personal and effective, allowing deeper connections to flourish. This has kept people engaged and the church staff aware of what’s happening in their ministries on a personal level. 

Results: Engagement In Action 

Since implementing TouchPoint, First Baptist Dallas has seen meaningful improvements in their engagement efforts. Outcomes include: 

• Enhanced Member Tracking: Monthly reports on Engagement Scores have enabled targeted outreach, ensuring that individuals are not overlooked during critical times. For example, a drop in engagement score may prompt a check-in conversation, revealing underlying struggles, unexpected illnesses, or personal challenges. 

• Lay Leader Empowerment: Care group leaders now have the tools to monitor attendance, follow up with members, and log interactions, creating a transparent accountability system to aid in ministry. 

• Streamlined Ministry Processes: Departments across the church have embraced TouchPoint, leading to more efficient operations and better communication between staff and lay leaders. The Tasks & Notes feature has been able to keep all necessary staff and lay leaders in the know for intentional discipleship. 

Key Takeaways For Other Churches 

First Baptist Dallas’s experience offers valuable lessons for other churches: 

• Prioritize Training and Adoption: Overcoming initial resistance to change requires clear communication of the tool’s value and ongoing training for staff and lay leaders alike. 

• Utilize Tools that Measure Engagement: The Engagement Score is a powerful way to track spiritual growth and identify members who may need additional support. 

• Empower Lay Leaders: Extending access to tools like TouchPoint can amplify outreach efforts and ensure deeper connections across the congregation. 

Conclusion 

Through their partnership with TouchPoint Church Management Software, First Baptist Dallas has transformed the way they engage with their congregation. By leveraging data-driven tools and empowering lay leaders, they have created a culture of intentional discipleship and meaningful connection. Their story serves as a testament to the impact that innovative tools and a committed team can have on a church’s ministry. 

Introduction

For over 26 years, Christy Smith has faithfully served Indiana Avenue Baptist Church in Lubbock, Texas. From wearing multiple hats in her early years to her current role as Human Resource (HR) and Database Technology Administrator, Christy has witnessed the evolution of church operations firsthand. In 2020, Indiana Avenue transitioned to TouchPoint Software, an all-in-one church management software. This case study explores how TouchPoint has empowered their church, improved its processes, and supported its mission. 

The Challenge: Outgrowing Legacy Systems

Indiana Avenue Baptist Church has a large and dynamic congregation, with an average worship attendance of 1,000-1,500 across multiple services and a staff of 115. Managing data and processes for such a vibrant ministry is no small task. Christy described their previous church management software as an increasingly frustrating system. 

“Once they sold, their customer service tanked,” she explained. “They told me issues were my fault even though I was using their product in the cloud.” 

Recurrent issues like unreliable recurring giving, insufficient tools for database management, and poor customer support ultimately drove Indiana Avenue Baptist to seek a better solution. Additionally, the legacy system’s outdated interface created inefficiencies for staff managing registrations, member data, and donation management. 

The Solution: Transitioning To A New Database 

In 2020, Indiana Avenue Baptist Church decided to implement TouchPoint’s all-in-one church software. The transition came with a bold decision: bringing over “garbage data” from the old system. 

“I chose to bring a lot of garbage into TouchPoint and clean it there rather than lose records,” Christy shared. 

Although the database still requires ongoing cleanup, the functionality and support from TouchPoint made the transition worthwhile. Christy emphasized the importance of reliable customer service: 

“I don’t get blamed when the product doesn’t work. TouchPoint’s staff is quick to respond and answer my questions.” 

The Results: Key Benefits Of TouchPoint

1. Partner-Centric Support 

Christy highlighted how TouchPoint’s partnership philosophy sets it apart: 

“TouchPoint really sees themselves as a partner and co-laborers, as opposed to clients. Everyone I’ve dealt with genuinely believes in what they say.” 

From consulting to onboarding, the team’s commitment to supporting Indiana Avenue’s ministry has made a lasting impact. Regular consulting sessions have been instrumental in optimizing TouchPoint’s functionality for Indiana Avenue’s unique needs, such as streamlining event registrations and configuring custom searches.  

“We’ve done quite a few consulting times, and that’s great because they get in, and they look at our data, and make it work for us…which is just a huge plus and well worth every penny spent for it.” 

2. Improved Database Functionality 

TouchPoint’s robust tools have addressed many of the church’s challenges. Registrations, a critical feature for Indiana Avenue’s numerous events, now operate seamlessly. The church uses registrations extensively for events like college retreats and children’s camps, which previously struggled with duplicate records and missing information. 

Christy emphasized how the registration system has simplified event management: 

“We do a lot of events, so registrations are huge for us, and [so is] having a system that works.” 

“The mobile app will be huge because it eliminates login issues, the biggest barrier to registrations,” Christy explained. “People can log in from their phones, reducing errors and creating a smoother experience.” 

3. Enhanced Data Management 

While database cleanliness remains an ongoing task, Christy has leveraged TouchPoint’s tools to make progress: 

“I do a lot of custom searches to clean up records. This allows me to review and archive the appropriate records.” 

The ability to archive outdated records has allowed Christy to focus on creating actionable, accurate data. Looking forward, she is excited about implementing Process Builder to automate repetitive tasks and save significant time for ministry staff. 

Lessons Learned 

Indiana Avenue’s journey with TouchPoint Software underscores several key insights for churches managing similar transitions: 

1. Invest In Training: Christy has taken it upon herself to create a 100-page training manual and recorded Teams meetings for staff to revisit instructions and tutorials. Although resources are available through TouchPoint, this is a church-specific training manual that allows staff to physically flip through resources to find exactly what they need.  

2. Designate A Point Person: One individual must own and oversee the database to ensure consistency and support for other staff. Christy has taken this role at Indiana Avenue, ensuring that all staff members have a go-to resource for questions or guidance. 

3. Connect With Others: Churches can benefit from networking with others using the same system for shared tips and support. Christy regularly collaborates with other churches to share best practices and insights. 

Christy also shared the value of attending TouchPoint Summit, an annual user’s conference that brings church leaders together to learn, network, and collaborate: 

“Summit is a great mix of breakout sessions and connecting with other churches. I always leave with practical takeaways and new relationships that help us use TouchPoint more effectively.” 

She highlighted the benefit of learning from other users’ experiences, exploring advanced features, and engaging in discussions that inspire new ways to maximize the system. 

The Impact 

TouchPoint has transformed how Indiana Avenue Baptist Church manages its data and operations. Beyond the technical improvements, the partnership-oriented approach has fostered trust and collaboration. 

“TouchPoint is not a bad word in our church,” Christy noted with a smile, contrasting it with their previous system that left staff frustrated. “TouchPoint is good about responding. Even if they can’t do something, I at least feel heard, which is important.” 

TouchPoint’s modern and user-friendly interface has significantly reduced staff complaints and streamlined operations. For example, the church has seen a noticeable improvement in communication efficiency through saved searches and targeted messaging. 

Looking ahead, Christy and her team are excited to implement new features and continue refining their processes. The journey is ongoing, but with TouchPoint as a partner, Indiana Avenue Baptist Church is well-equipped to grow and thrive. 

Conclusion 

Indiana Avenue Baptist’s experience with TouchPoint Software highlights the power of a comprehensive church management system paired with a genuine partnership approach. For churches navigating similar challenges, Christy’s story serves as both inspiration and a practical guide. Investing in the right tools, training, and relationships can make all the difference in supporting ministry goals. 

Ready to evaluate your church database and church giving software like Indiana Avenue Baptist? 
Contact us to learn how TouchPoint Church Management Software can help your ministry thrive!

The Christmas season has passed, leaving church staff members with full hearts and likely full schedules. While the holiday hustle may have slowed, the new year ushers in an exciting opportunity to deepen connections within your congregation and reach out to new guests. However, no matter how great your intentions are, a cluttered or outdated church database can hinder your efforts. As your church family grows, a clean and organized church database becomes helpful and essential. Here are some practical tips for maintaining a clean database and ensuring it remains a powerful tool for ministry. 

Why A Clean Database Matters 

Your database is the backbone of your church’s outreach and engagement efforts. It helps you: 

• Follow up with first-time guests promptly. 

• Celebrate and communicate effectively with your volunteers. 

• Encourage members and attendees to take the next step in their faith journey, such as joining a small group, being baptized, or serving. 

• Equip your leadership team with accurate reports for informed decision-making. 

Without accurate and up-to-date data, these goals become much harder to achieve. Imagine sending a volunteer recognition message to someone who hasn’t served in years or missing the chance to invite a guest back simply because their contact details were incorrectly recorded. Clean data ensures your communication is timely, relevant, and impactful. 

Tips For Keeping Your Church Database Clean 

1. Start the Year With A Data Audit 

Set aside time in January to audit your church database. Focus on identifying and resolving issues like: 

• Duplicate records 

• Outdated or incorrect contact information 

• Incomplete member profiles 

• Inactive records 

To make the process manageable, divide the audit into smaller tasks—for example, tackling one category of data (e.g., email addresses) each week. 

2. Empower Your Team 

Database management shouldn’t fall solely on one person. Train your team and volunteers on how to input and update data correctly. Consistent practices across the board will help prevent errors from piling up over time. 

3. Set Clear Data Entry Standards 

Develop guidelines for how data should be entered. For instance: 

• Use consistent naming conventions (capitalizing first and last names). 

• Standardize abbreviations and address formatting. 

• Ensure new records always include essential information like phone numbers and email addresses. 

These small habits can have a big impact on the quality of your data. 

4. Leverage Technology 

Use church software tools to streamline and automate database maintenance. For example: 

• A system duplicate-finder can quickly identify and merge duplicate records. 

• Automated data validation reports can flag incomplete or inconsistent entries. 

If your current church management system doesn’t offer these capabilities, consider exploring platforms that provide robust data management features. 

5. Incorporate Database Maintenance Into Regular Workflow 

Make data cleanliness an ongoing priority by scheduling regular updates. For example: 

• Review and update member profiles quarterly. 

• Check in with ministry leaders monthly to ensure volunteer and group member records are accurate. 

• Run a new-guests report every Monday to confirm that their profile information is entered in correctly. 

6. Engage Your Church 

Encourage your church to keep their profiles up to date. You can do this by: 

• This includes a quick data update request during service announcements for any changes to emails or addresses. This will aid in sending out timely statements.

• Sending periodic emails with a link to review and update their contact information. 

• Offering kiosks or stations during events where members can verify their details. 

Avoiding The Overwhelm: Tackling The Backlog 

If your church database has not been maintained, cleaning it up can feel daunting. Here’s how to avoid getting bogged down: 

• Prioritize By Impact: Start with the data categories that most affect your ministry—like contact information for active attendees or records of first-time guests. 

• Ask For Help: Recruit a team of staff members or volunteers to tackle the project together. Even a few extra hands can make a big difference. 

• Celebrate Progress: Cleaning your database is a significant achievement! Celebrate milestones along the way to keep your team motivated. 

Meet People Where They Are 

January is a season of new beginnings. Many people in your community are setting resolutions, looking for deeper purpose, or seeking connection. Your church can be ready to meet them where they are. Here are some ways to meet your community where they are:

• Send personalized follow-ups that make guests feel valued. 

• Recognize and appreciate the contributions of your new and existing volunteers. 

• Proactively invite members to take their next steps in faith and service. 

Ready To Take The Next Step? 

While these tips can help you maintain a clean church database, having the right tools can make the process more efficient and less stressful. Platforms like TouchPoint Software are designed to simplify database management and help churches like yours focus more on ministry and less on admin work. Whether or not you’re ready to make a church management software (ChMS) change, implementing the above practices will set you and your church community up for a successful year of outreach and engagement. 

A clean church database is more than just a tool; it’s a ministry enabler. By investing time in maintaining accurate data, you’re investing in the growth and health of your church family. Tackle this today, and watch how clean data can help your church THRIVE in ’25! 

Transform Ministry Engagement with TouchPoint Church Management Software

Introduction 

Enon Tabernacle Baptist Church, located in Philadelphia, is a vibrant and thriving congregation with over 15,000 members and 100+ ministries. Known for its strong sense of community and prayer culture, Enon sought a more robust, real-time solution to support its growing ministry needs. In 2022, they became a church partner with TouchPoint Software to transition from their previous database platform and began their journey towards seamless ministry operations and greater connectivity.

The Challenge

Enon faced several challenges with their previous system:

• Limited Functionality: Their previous software could not scale with Enon’s needs, leaving gaps in member engagement and ministry tracking. This made it difficult to communicate effectively and foster the types of personal relationships they desired.

• Real-Time Data Access: Enon needed a platform that provided their vast congregation and ministries the ability to update and access information instantly. With a large congregation both in-person and online, it was difficult to update and maintain accurate member information. They needed something that would allow people to update their own personal information, thus enabling the staff to focus more time on ministering.

• Virtual Member Connection: With a significant portion of members located remotely, the church sought tools to better connect with and support this group.

The Solution

In 2022, Enon engaged with TouchPoint, an all-in-one church management system designed to empower ministries through real-time data access, member engagement, and other robust solutions. By the end of 2023, they had fully rolled out the platform, first introducing the new church software to ministry leaders and later extending it to their congregation.

Julie Etta shared: “TouchPoint in and of itself is a blessing for where we were heading and are heading moving forward.”

The Results

The switch to TouchPoint has been transformative for Enon Tabernacle. Key benefits include:

Real-Time Member Engagement

• Enon now provides their congregation access to their personal information and ministry involvement in real-time. Julie Etta called this out as a tremendous time savings, “TouchPoint allows members to access their own information and frees me up to do other things in ministry.”
• Ministry leaders are now able to engage with their ministries in better ways. Julie Etta noted, “It’s a blessing to send out one message to multiple ministries all at once. We were never able to do that before.” TouchPoint’s communication features have also made it easier for members to reach staff and lay leaders when they need help.

Stronger Connections with Virtual Members

• Members in other states or countries feel more connected than ever, strengthening Enon’s ability to serve their entire congregation. Streamlined communication tools have fostered a deeper connection regardless of location.

Empowering Ministries

• Enon’s step-by-step rollout ensured staff, leaders, and members could adapt to the new system in a way that was manageable to them and their needs. This process enabled 100+ ministries to work more efficiently and stay aligned during the transition.

Cultural Alignment

• Enon Tabernacle strongly emphasizes prayer, which is central to their ministry. They have successfully navigated through COVID by leveraging digital platforms to strengthen their congregation’s engagement. First, by corporately praying for Pastor as he was the only one in the building, then turning that into consistent prayer for ministries and members.

• As Enon continues to connect with the TouchPoint Consulting Team, the right tools are being equipped to the right people. Whether it is with communication, prayer, event registrations and check-in, or online giving, TouchPoint is able to align with and meet the unique needs of Enon’s ministry for lasting impact.

Looking Ahead

With TouchPoint as its partner, Enon is excited to continue growing its impact. Julie Etta expressed hope for ongoing collaboration: 

“The way in which Touchpoint operates on a personal level, making each [partner], that just happens to be a church, and its body, feel like they’re the only ones that exist. If you can keep that culture, you will have longevity with the churches that you’re partnering with.” 

As Enon prepares for their upcoming Christmas production, featuring a mass choir, in-house orchestra, and a vibrant arts ministry, they are poised to reach more hearts in their community for Jesus. 

A Prayer From Julie Etta: 

Julie Etta is the Database Manager at Enon Tabernacle Baptist and has been on staff there for over 14 years. She recently attended TouchPoint Summit, an annual users conference designed to encourage and further empower partner churches in their ministry. Here is her prayer:

“My prayer request would be to pray for those individuals who are apprehensive about the new technology and feel fearful because it isn’t something that they are accustomed to using. Open their hearts and their minds to what is new, letting them know that they have blessings yet to receive that they might be blocking by not being open-minded and moving forward.” 

Key Takeaways For Prospective Church Partners 

• Scalable Real-Time Solutions: Whether you have a large, growing, or massive congregation, TouchPoint adapts to your needs. 

• Engagement Beyond Sunday Services: Build stronger connections with virtual and local members alike through effective communication tools. 

• A Trusted Partner: TouchPoint doesn’t just serve churches; it partners with them to elevate their ministry in the unique ways God has called them. 

Ready to transform your ministry like Enon Tabernacle Baptist? 
Contact us to learn how TouchPoint Church Management Software can help your ministry thrive!

Prayer is one of the most sacred and intimate acts of faith—a direct line of communication with God. Prayer is where hearts are poured out, burdens are lifted, spiritual battles are waged, and healing is delivered. As pastors, fostering a culture of prayer in your church is a high calling. Yet, in a world increasingly driven by technology, it can feel like the sacredness of prayer might be at odds with the optimization and reach offered by digital tools.

The good news is that technology does not have to diminish the power or intimacy of prayer. In fact, it can enhance and expand it, enabling your church to engage more people and nurture deeper connections with God. Let’s explore how churches can balance the intimacy of prayer with the efficiency of technology to create a vibrant, prayerful community that reaches the lost and empowers the faithful. 

The Intimacy of Prayer in a Tech-Saturated World 

Prayer is deeply personal, whether it’s whispered in solitude or shared in a circle of believers. This intimacy is essential for cultivating a thriving prayer culture in your church. As technology continues to transform how we connect, some may fear that it will strip prayer of its personal nature. However, when used thoughtfully, technology can draw people closer to God and one another. 

A culture of prayer starts with intentionality. Encourage members to prioritize quiet time with God, free from distractions. Equip them to see prayer not as a task to check off but as a relational rhythm to their day. While technology can facilitate prayer, the heart of prayer must remain anchored in reverence and authenticity. 

Technology as a Catalyst for a Culture of Prayer 

Technology can serve as a powerful tool to encourage and sustain prayer. Here are some innovative ways churches are leveraging digital tools to deepen their prayer culture: 

1. Prayer Apps and Notifications 

Mobile apps like PrayerMate, Lectio 365, and custom church apps like The TouchPoint App offer members an easy way to keep track of prayer requests, set reminders to pray, and share updates on answered prayers. These tools bring prayer into the rhythm of daily life, nudging members to pause and pray no matter where they are. 

2. Digital Prayer Walls 

Many churches are using online platforms to create prayer walls where members can submit requests, share praises, and commit to praying for one another. This fosters a sense of community and accountability, even among members who may not attend in person regularly. 

3. Virtual Prayer Meetings 

Technology enables churches to host prayer meetings via Zoom or other video conferencing tools. This is particularly valuable for members who cannot attend in-person gatherings. These virtual meetings create a space for believers to connect across distances while sharing the sacred act of corporate prayer. 

4. Social Media and Live Streaming 

Social media platforms can amplify the call to prayer, whether through a live-streamed prayer event, daily prayer prompts, or testimonies of answered prayers. These efforts can engage both church members and those outside your community, inviting them into the practice of prayer. 

Reaching the Lost Through Prayer-Focused Technology 

Prayer is a powerful evangelistic tool. When combined with technology, it can break down barriers and invite seekers into a relationship with Christ. Here are some ways to extend prayer’s reach: 

1. Accessibility for All 

A robust digital prayer strategy ensures that anyone, anywhere, can engage in prayer with your church. An online prayer wall or app provides an open door for people who may not feel comfortable attending in-person services but are seeking spiritual connection. 

2. Testimonies and Stories 

Sharing stories of answered prayers through videos, blogs, or social media posts can inspire both believers and non-believers. These testimonies showcase God’s faithfulness and invite others to experience His power through prayer. 

3. Outreach and Follow-Up 

When prayer requests are submitted online, your team has an opportunity to follow up, offering further support, encouragement, and an invitation to join your church community. This personal touch can make a lasting impact on those exploring faith. 

Guardrails for Technology in Prayer 

As helpful as technology is, it’s essential to use it wisely and intentionally. Here are some principles to keep in mind: 

• Prioritize Personal Connection: While digital tools can enhance prayer, they should never replace face-to-face interactions and personal discipleship. 

• Maintain Privacy and Sensitivity: Ensure that online prayer requests are handled with care, protecting the privacy of individuals who may share sensitive information. Giving people an avenue to submit anonymous prayer requests removes any potential barriers to receiving prayer.  

• Keep Prayer God-Centered: Resist the temptation to make prayer about metrics or engagement numbers. Technology is a tool, not the focus. 

Prayer as the Heartbeat of Revival 

Revival begins with prayer. As pastors, you have the unique privilege of leading your church in a way that marries the timeless power of prayer with the possibilities of modern technology. By doing so, you can inspire a culture of prayer that not only strengthens your church family but also reaches the lost with the hope and love of Jesus. 

Embrace technology as a tool to magnify the reach and impact of prayer while always safeguarding its sacredness. In doing so, you’ll equip your congregation to connect deeply with God and each other, creating a legacy of faith that transforms lives for generations to come. 

Would you like to learn more about how TouchPoint Software is elevating a culture of prayer and leveraging technology for The Kingdom? Explore our full Church Management Software Platform during a free 1 hour over Zoom.