Annual Conference Report - Written by Carrie Miller What’s happening in your church that deserves to be seen? Laura Heikes highlights a simple yet powerful way to expand your church’s reach— through pictures and videos. Every ministry is already doing meaningful work, but too often, only the direct participants see it. By capturing and sharing these moments, churches can increase engagement, inspire generosity, and change how the community perceives their mission. Here’s how to start sharing your story. You can multiply your impact by connecting with more people in your congregation and community with one simple change—take and share pictures and videos. Every church is doing something amazing—but often, only the participants know about it. You can change that! Pictures and videos let the whole community see the story unfold. Taking and sharing pictures and videos can increase participation, inspire generosity, and change community perceptions. You don’t even need to create a new ministry or program! Take pictures of what you’re already doing and share that. You’ll be amazed at how this simple practice multiplies the impact and connection to ministry. Here’s how to get started: Ask the question. What’s happening this week? And who will take a few pictures? Ideas include: • A children’s Sunday School lesson • Tuesday night Bible study • • • Food pantry packing or distribution Prayer shawl knitting Office volunteers counting offering or folding bulletins Each week, talk about which ministries are happening and who will take pictures. No need to recruit or hire a professional. Phones make it possible for almost anyone to be a photographer. Share, share, share. People love to see themselves in pictures! Social media is the place to start. Shoot for 1-2 posts a week about events, outreach, studies, and programs. These aren’t announcements or cries for help. They are celebrations of the ministry that’s being done (these posts will be invitation enough, promise!). Start to notice which pictures and methods (video, reel, interview, photos) receive the most positive interaction (likes, shares, comments, tags). Learn and lean into what connects and engages. When you see posts from volunteers or staff in your church, comment, like, and share to encourage others to keep up the good work! You don’t need a new program—just start capturing the ministry that’s already happening. This week, ask yourself: What’s happening in our church that deserves to be seen? Then, grab your phone and start sharing the story. You’ll be amazed at how it multiplies impact and connection.
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