Church Marketing 101, Part 4

This Chapter of Church Marketing 101 didn’t settle too well with me as I am not convinced that the target marketing Richard writes about works straight across the board (marketing a product to a specific group of people). What I walked away with from this chapter is that we need to study the demographics of our area and combine those demographics with basic human needs in order to categorize different groups of people, then determine their lifestyles so that we can devise ways to speak to them according to that lifestyle. In today’s extremely diverse post modern culture, that is easier said than done as there are MANY people groups and many subgroups within those groups. Targeting just one of those groups would alienate other groups. For example, if I targeted just ‘skate boarders who liked hip hop’, I would limit myself to not be able to reach all of the other skateboarders or all of the thousands of other lifestyles/demographics at all. I believe the Gospel is universal and can be shared similarly with all groups within the same general culture (Western/Asian/Middle Eastern/etc…), but does need to be communicated differently within broad subcultures (i.e. mainstream under 60 and traditional over 60, etc…), and even more uniquely when dealing one on one or in small groups or ministries to even smaller subcultures. But as a pastor I cannot focus all my ministry on unique subcultures and need to minister on a wider spectrum. A phrase that really stood out in this chapter, though, was,” the church that speaks their language the best, grows the fastest.”

2 Responsesto “Church Marketing 101, Part 4”

1. David Tonen says:

   June 26, 2010 at 7:37 am

   I hear your struggles. However, every established church inherently has a certain culture or demographic already. As a result, you will be more likely to attract a like demographic with your marketing. (Marketing is much more than advertising).

   So, if your church is primarily made up of young families, they as your “marketing team” will naturally minister more easily to others with young families than hip-hop skateboarders. That does not mean your ministry would not effectively reach the sskateboarders, just that you would be more effective reaching families.

   This is a big topic, and I know there are lots of opinions. Just a few of my thoughts. I appreciate your reflections!
2. Richard Reising says:

   July 5, 2010 at 8:26 am

   Targeting is not for everyone, note the example of the water hose in the book. It’s a trade-off. You can soak a small group or spread your attention across a larger group. Your choice is about understanding who you are called to reach. Paul was capable of being all things to all men, but at the end of the day, he considered himself an apostle unto the Gentiles. The secret: know your calling.

   Let’s chat sometime. Facebook me and we can set up a time. Thanks for your work with the book and all you do for the kingdom!