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August 24, 2011

Facebook Pages vs. Groups

Two ways to keep your church connected

by Adam Johnson

So you want to get your church into the Facebook social media world? But, alas, some well-meaning individual in the church has already created a Facebook page on behalf of the church.

Sigh. This can be really frustrating, when multiple Facebook Pages and Groups exist for one church. Plus, they may or may not accurately represent what the organization is about.

You can attempt to find out who “owns” a Page or Group and contact them directly. Problem solved. Right?

But wait…what’s the difference between a Facebook Page and a Group? Which one is right for your church? I am so glad you asked! Here is a quick rundown of the difference (from Facebook's perspective) between Pages and Groups.

So, which one should I create?

Depending on your needs, you can create a Page or select "Create Group" on the left side of your home page. We suggest, especially for whole church communication, to create a Page. If you just want to be in touch with a few select people (like a ministry team or council), a Group might be best for you.

And remember that well-meaning person from your church who created that rogue Facebook presence to start with? Don’t rule them out—they could be your next superstar volunteer!

Adam Johnson is a Communication Strategist at Fishhook in Indianapolis, Indiana where he helps churches and Christ-centered groups communicate clearly, creatively, and consistently. A graduate of Lincoln Christian University, Adam is married to a wonderful wife, Abbie, and has a history ministering in the local church. Follow him on twitter @adamadamjohnson or check out fishhook.us.

To learn more about social media, see the Gifted for Leadership downloadable resource Leveraging Social Media for Ministry.

Posted by Marian Liautaud on August 24, 2011 2:48 PM

Related Tags: church, community, facebook, social networking

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