By Deacon Peggy Hahn (she/her), Director of Innovation at LEAD

If people would only read their emails… here are 5 ah-ha’s we’ve learned

We send email after email… and still hear, “No one told me!” Sound familiar? Whether you’re sending or skimming, we’re all feeling the overload.

We’re living in a world of too much communication. Different generations prefer different tools, and churches trying to reach everyone often end up exhausting themselves—and their audience.

Over the past few years, LEAD has been paying attention to this communication “black hole.” Here are a few simple truths:

1. Email still works—if it’s done well.
   Clear, concise, well-designed emails sent to people who know you are still one of the most effective tools. Long, cluttered messages to people without a relationship? Easy to ignore.
2. Relationships drive engagement.
   In-person and Zoom gatherings are still the best ways to build trust, shape values, and invite deeper conversation. And the best invitations come from people, not platforms.
3. Social media matters.
   It’s today’s town square. Choose platforms based on who you’re trying to reach—but yes, you need a presence.
4. Your website is your front door.
   Most people go there first when they need information. They don’t want to dig through emails or ask around. Keep it current, clear, and easy to navigate—it’s worth the investment.
5. Clarity beats volume.
   Churches aren’t event factories. We’re communities of people trying to follow Jesus in a complicated world. Keep the message simple, rooted, and meaningful. Think about the story of the Prodigal Son. People come back for that over and over.

We’re always glad to help strengthen communication and connection—because it’s central to how we lead and serve. 

Note: Every strategic plan we are doing now includes a Communications Audit. We look at staff and leadership communications, congregational communications, and your communications to the neighborhood. Learn more about LEAD’s Communications Audit here.