Summary: This guide outlines best practices for launching Tithely Giving and your Custom Church App. It covers essential steps for pre-launch preparation, execution during your launch weekend services, and strategies to maintain momentum and engagement afterwards.
Before You Begin
Status Check: Ensure you have started migrating recurring givers to Tithely and that your Custom Church App is fully built (or very close to ready).
Resources: You will need to create or download presentation slides for your services. (Links to editable resources are often found in your onboarding materials).
Website: Verify that the giving link on your church's main website has been updated to your new Tithely form before announcing the launch.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Phase 1: Pre-Launch Preparation
In the week leading up to your launch, prepare your communication channels to ensure a smooth transition.
Prepare your Social Media posts announcing the switch to Tithely and the new app.
Send an Email Blast to your congregation previewing the app and explaining the new giving platform.
Update your Website and any other digital touch points (newsletters, footers) with the new giving link.
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Create your Service Slides. You need two specific types:
Giving Slide: Lists all ways to give (App, Online, Text). Display this during the offering time.
App Slide: Explains how to download the app. Display this pre- and post-service.
Phase 2: Launch Weekend Execution
Success on launch weekend relies on clear promotion and demonstrating value. Download our free resources here.
Display your Pre-Service Slides to promote the app download before worship begins.
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Announce the custom app during the service.
Highlight specific features to drive downloads, such as the Digital Bulletin, Sermon Notes, Podcasts, and the Church Calendar.
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Explain the new ways to give during the offering.
Talk clearly about the options: "You can give now using our new App, online at our website, or via text."
Post live updates on Social Media during the weekend to catch those not in attendance.
Phase 3: Post-Launch Momentum
To keep engagement high after the initial excitement fades, follow these ongoing practices.
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Communicate the ways to give every week.
Reason: The average attendee comes to church 1.7 times per month. Frequent repetition ensures everyone hears the message.
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Create irresistible content for your app.
Keep the app fresh with updated sermon notes, blog posts, and event details so users have a reason to open it during the week.
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Discuss the value of Recurring Giving.
Share both the Biblical reasons for generosity and the practical benefits (budgeting/planning) of setting up recurring gifts.
Troubleshooting & FAQs
Why do we need to talk about giving every single week? Statistics show the average churchgoer attends only 1.7 times per month. If you only mention the new giving tools once a month, many members will miss the instruction. Consistent communication ensures everyone knows how to give, regardless of when they attend.
How do we encourage people to download the app after launch weekend? Focus on utility. Don't just say "Download the app." Instead, say "Open the app to follow along with today's Sermon Notes" or "Check the App Calendar for the summer camp schedule." Give them a specific reason to use it right now.
How can we increase recurring giving? Be transparent. Explain that recurring giving helps the church budget effectively and plan for future ministry reach. Many donors are willing to automate their giving but simply don't realize how helpful it is for the church's administration.