Social media is no longer optional for churches. It’s where your congregation spends their time, where new visitors check you out, and where your message can reach beyond the walls of your building. But with new platforms like Threads entering the scene, many church leaders are asking: Should we jump on Threads, or stick to Facebook?

The answer isn’t as simple as “one or the other.” It depends on your goals, your audience, and how you use these platforms.


Why Facebook Still Matters for Churches

Facebook has been the go-to platform for churches for over a decade, and for good reason. It’s where most of your congregation already is. As of 2023, Facebook still has over 2.9 billion monthly active users, and it’s especially popular among older demographics—people aged 35 and up. If your church’s core audience includes families, parents, or retirees, Facebook is still the best place to connect with them.

Here’s why Facebook remains a powerhouse for churches:

  1. Community Building Tools
    Facebook Groups are a game-changer for churches. You can create private groups for Bible studies, prayer requests, or ministry teams. These groups foster deeper engagement and make people feel connected beyond Sunday services.
  2. Event Promotion
    Whether it’s a Sunday service, a youth retreat, or a community outreach event, Facebook’s event tools make it easy to invite people, track RSVPs, and send reminders.
  3. Livestreaming
    Facebook Live is still one of the easiest ways to stream your services. It’s user-friendly, and most of your congregation already knows how to use it.
  4. Advertising
    Facebook’s ad platform is unmatched when it comes to targeting specific demographics. Want to reach young families in your area? You can do that. Want to invite people who’ve recently moved to your city? You can do that too.

But here’s the catch: Facebook’s organic reach has been declining for years. If you’re not running ads or posting consistently, your content might not even reach your followers. That’s where Threads comes in.


What Is Threads, and Why Should Churches Care?

Threads is Meta’s answer to Twitter—a text-based social media platform designed for real-time conversations. It’s integrated with Instagram, so if your church already has an Instagram account, you can set up Threads in minutes.

Threads is still new, but it’s growing fast. It’s particularly popular among younger audiences—Millennials and Gen Z. If your church is trying to reach these groups, Threads could be a valuable tool.

Here’s what makes Threads unique:

  1. Real-Time Engagement
    Threads is all about quick, conversational posts. It’s perfect for sharing sermon quotes, Bible verses, or updates in real time. Think of it as a way to keep the conversation going throughout the week.
  2. Less Saturation
    Because Threads is new, it’s not as crowded as Facebook. This means your posts are more likely to be seen, especially if you’re consistent.
  3. Integration with Instagram
    If your church is already active on Instagram, Threads is a natural extension. You can cross-post content and reach your audience on both platforms.
  4. Younger Demographics
    If you’re trying to engage young adults or teens, Threads is where they’re hanging out. It’s a chance to meet them where they are and build relationships.

Should Your Church Be on Both?

The short answer: probably. But how you use each platform should be different.

Facebook is your home base. It’s where you post announcements, livestream services, and build community through groups. It’s the platform for your core congregation.

Threads, on the other hand, is your outreach tool. It’s where you can experiment, engage with younger audiences, and share quick, conversational content. Think of it as a way to extend your church’s voice beyond your regular attendees.


How to Use Facebook and Threads Effectively

If you’re going to use both platforms, you need a strategy. Here’s how to maximise your impact:

1. Define Your Goals

  • On Facebook, your goal might be to keep your congregation informed and engaged.
  • On Threads, your goal might be to reach new people and spark conversations.

2. Tailor Your Content

Don’t just copy and paste the same posts on both platforms.

  • On Facebook, focus on longer posts, event details, and livestreams.
  • On Threads, keep it short and conversational. Share behind-the-scenes moments, sermon highlights, or quick Bible verses.

3. Engage Consistently

Social media is a two-way street. Don’t just post and disappear.

  • On Facebook, respond to comments and messages.
  • On Threads, join conversations and reply to other users’ posts.

4. Measure Your Results

Use analytics to see what’s working.

  • On Facebook, track engagement, reach, and event RSVPs.
  • On Threads, look at likes, replies, and follower growth.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  1. Spreading Yourself Too Thin
    If you don’t have the time or team to manage multiple platforms, focus on the one where your audience is most active. It’s better to do one platform well than to do both poorly.
  2. Ignoring Your Audience
    Don’t assume your congregation is on Threads just because it’s new. Ask them where they spend their time online and focus your efforts there.
  3. Posting Without a Plan
    Random posts won’t get you far. Create a content calendar and plan your posts in advance.

So, should your church be on Threads or stick to Facebook? The answer is both—if you have the capacity. Facebook is still the best platform for engaging your core congregation, while Threads offers a unique opportunity to reach younger audiences and spark real-time conversations.

But remember, social media is just a tool. It’s not about the platform; it’s about the people. Focus on building relationships, sharing your message, and serving your community. The platforms will change, but your mission stays the same.


Action Steps for Your Church

  1. Audit Your Current Social Media
    Look at your Facebook page. Is it active? Are you engaging with your audience? If not, start there before adding Threads.
  2. Set Up Threads
    If you’re ready to try Threads, set up your account and start posting. Share a mix of sermon highlights, Bible verses, and behind-the-scenes content.
  3. Create a Content Calendar
    Plan your posts for both platforms. Make sure you’re posting consistently and tailoring your content to each audience.
  4. Engage with Your Audience
    Social media isn’t just about posting—it’s about connecting. Respond to comments, join conversations, and build relationships.

By focusing on the right platforms and using them effectively, your church can reach more people, build stronger connections, and share your message with the world.

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