A step-by-step guide on how to start an online ministry
Starting an online ministry can be very rewarding, both for you and the folks you aim to serve. Nowadays, reaching out to people across the globe is more accessible than ever, allowing you to share your message, provide support, and build connections like never before. Whether you’re passionate about sharing teachings, offering prayer, or creating community, this guide will walk you through the essential steps to launch your online ministry with confidence and purpose. Let’s explore how you can make a meaningful impact in the virtual world!
Who are you called to serve?
Before you dive into the tech side of things, think about the people who will identify with your story and engage with you. When you draw this detailed picture, you know exactly who you are speaking to. You know where you can find them online and in real life. You will stay focused on this ideal reader even if you’re tempted to target another audience. This is the audience you can assist and who needs to hear God's message through you the most.
If you’ve never thought about your ideal readers before, now is the time to think about their attributes and create an avatar – a detailed description – including their demographics, struggles, and what their life is like on a daily basis.
Get as detailed as possible. Give your avatar a name, and describe their family and living situation, including their age. List their struggles and what solutions they are searching for.
Now, on to the tech stuff.
Choose an online platform
There are plenty of web platforms out there, but I recommend two: Squarespace (my personal preference) and WordPress.
Both platforms allow for growth. Believe me, it's frustrating to start your blog on a platform and then realize down the road it doesn't have the functions you need to take it to the next level. It's best to start where you want to go.
I've included tutorials and resources for both WordPress and Squarespace below. Do your research and choose the option that's best for you.
In the initial stages, keep the web design and launch process simple. One way to do that is to focus on building out no more than four pages: the home page; the blog; the about page; and a contact page.
Keep it simple!👇👇👇
I love Squarespace!
So much so, that I've only used Squarespace since 2015. My clients find it easy to use once I pass their new design off to them, which makes me incredibly happy! Below are free trainings and recommendations for templates.
DIY your dream website - a free training that covers branding and design
Sign up for a free Squarespace webinar
If WordPress is your jam, keep reading!
WordPress is one of the most popular platforms out there. It does take a little DIY and technical know-how but if you've got the time and patience, you'll end up with a beautiful blog.
Below are some of my recommended resources to launch your WordPress blog.
Once you name your blog, you’ll need to purchase a domain.
Learn how to launch a website on WordPress with this step-by-step guide and checklist.
Elementor is a popular WordPress website builder but it can be a bit confusing if you’re just starting out. Here’s a free Elementor course to walk you through setup and beyond.
You’re gonna need hosting to run your new WordPress site. Look for security, good page load time, great customer support, reliability, and flexible plans that allow your blog to grow. Siteground and Bluehost get my votes.
How to create content for your blog
There’s a lot I could write about this topic but I want to direct you to the good folks over at COMPEL Pro Writers Training, where I and many others share tips for Christian content creators, like bloggers. Dive into some helpful posts below.
How to grow your audience
Social Media
Before I dive into the subject of social media, I want to invite you to really think about not only where your audience hangs out but also how you’re being called to minister to your audience. The reality is that social media trends come and go, leaving you exhausted and frustrated because you’re not seeing the growth you’d like.
Did you know the lifespan of a social media post can vary depending on the platform? Let’s look at some stats:
TikTok: 0–2 minutes (you’ve gotta go viral for your audience to see your content)
X (formerly known as Twitter): 15–18 minutes
Facebook: 5–6 hours
LinkedIn: 24 hours
Instagram: 48 hours
YouTube: 20 days
Pinterest: 4 months
Blog posts: 2 years
As you create your marketing plan, keep this information handy and use it as a guide.
Back to social media…
There are many options when it comes to social media. I recommend starting with one platform (where your ideal audience hangs out) and going all out for at least three months, preferably six months. Social media is not a quick fix to your traffic issues. It takes time and effort to build a platform. Some helpful guides are below. Pick one and give it a try.
Free guides and training
Social media schedulers
Tailwind - Pinterest, Instagram
PlannThat - Facebook, LinkedIn, TikTok, Pinterest
Planoly - Instagram, Pinterest, TikTok
Buffer - Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Shopify, TikTok, Twitter, Google Business Profile
Meta Business Suite - Facebook, Instagram
Email Marketing
Sending visitors to your website is a very effective way for your audience to get to know you. And with the always-changing algorithms, you have more control over your message than sharing through social media. Below are some resources to plan and execute an effective campaign.
How to create a lead magnet in 4 easy steps
ConvertKit - Free plan
SEO
Search Engine Optimization, or SEO, might sound fancy and technical but the simple definition is this: getting your website and blog seen in search engines. There's a way to get your writing seen through SEO so make sure to check out this resource.
Write a guest post
What a wonderful way to not only grow your audience but also to help out a fellow blogger by writing a guest post. Below are a few guest post opportunities. Make sure to read and follow any requirements.
Speaking + Podcasts
Maybe speaking is your thing — you go! Below are a few blog posts about how to start a podcast or a speaking ministry.
Monetizing your content
Affiliate Marketing
One of my favorite ways to monetize content is through affiliate marketing. Affiliate marketing is a partnership between yourself and a product or service provider where you make money off of your recommendations of their product or service.
You can create a product or recommend others. Check out the resources below for ideas and inspiration.
Provide services
Do you know all those tasks you've done to get your blog up and running? There are folks who need your help! Consider offering virtual services, like editing, blog writing, or podcast support. Just create a page on your website and add your services.
Check out this blog post with 50 services you can offer as a virtual assistant.
Add a tip jar
While there are lots of cool tools to launch and grow your writing ministry, there will be a financial investment. If you're not careful, blogging can get expensive. Adding a tip jar is a cool way to ask for support of your writing ministry!
Other recommended resources
Create a color palette for your new blog. You might find yourself spending lots of time here — beware :)
Check for errors with this free tool.
You don't have to break the bank by taking headshots. My teenage son took mine with his digital camera. You'll want to have a nice headshot on your website's About page. Folks like to put a face with a name :) Get more tips here.
Free stock photos
Recommended Reading + Podcasts 📚🎙️
Can you or should you build an audience without social media? Listen to this podcast for an interesting perspective on how to ditch social media.
I can’t wait to see your online ministry come to life. Hope this was helpful!
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Regina is a writer, homeschooling mom, and owner of a soul food catering business. She is the host of the Pray to Play podcast, where she shares practical tips and heartfelt advice for parents navigating the busy world of athletics. A contributor to several publications, including Tracie Miles' Living Unbroken book study, she is also an advocate for young adults with developmental disabilities and serves on the Compel Pro volunteer leadership team. Living in Ohio with her family, she designs Squarespace websites for fellow creatives and spends her free time cheering her sons from the sidelines or sipping tea while chatting about God’s goodness with women.
