If you don't already have a Web site, you may not know that two-thirds of all Americans regularly use the Internet for email, research, education and entertainment.

Here's what people do every day:

• 3 million Americans look for faith and religious information.
• 55 million Americans log onto the Internet
• 48 million people send or read email
• 48 million people complete a task like searching for information or buying something.

Members expect you to have a Web site
A Web site and email access are as important as having voicemail, fax, an answering machine, a telephone directory ad or a weekly listing in your newspaper's church service directory. A Web site provides you with the benefits of all of these methods of staying in touch and getting your message out to the community.

People are online looking for you
Your members, and potential members, are using the Internet at home, school and work. If you don't have a Web site, you are missing a valuable way of communicating with your members, your community and those who are searching for information about churches.

Other organizations and churches are online
Other churches and ministry organizations in your community are online aggressively promoting their Web sites as member benefits and ministry outreach and evangelization efforts. They are putting their Web address in print, television, radio and newspaper advertising as well as on business cards, letterhead, printed brochures and handouts. What are you waiting for?

Church information is always available
Your Web site is always on and available to anyone looking for information about your church or ministry. Members and seekers can find the information they need when they need it without additional mailing costs, personnel to answer a phone or voice mail messages to be returned.

Members expect online support
Many members of your congregation use the Internet regularly and expect to be able to find information about their church online. They are looking for things such as a calendar, a way to make online prayer requests, find scripture, read sermons, find phone numbers and interact with staff members quickly and easily. In addition, a Web site can help people easily locate your worship schedules, address and directions to your church.

Web sites save you money
Internet information can greatly reduce printing and mailing costs. Information that you now distribute via handouts, brochures and newsletters is readily available online, avoiding print distribution costs.

Your Web site tells your members they're important
A Web site communicates positive values to your membership. It tells them that you care enough to provide current information and communicate with them at their convenience. It also shows that you want to hear from them and want them to be full participants in your ministry.

Source : http://www.webmedley2.com/