Texting Myths That Are Holding Your Church Back
Last updated September 2025
You’ve probably heard the objections.
“People don’t read texts anymore.”
“Our congregation doesn’t want us texting them.”
“Texting is impersonal. It doesn’t fit our church culture.”
We get it. Church leaders want to honor people’s boundaries. But these assumptions could be the very thing holding your church back from deeper connections.
The truth? When used well, texting isn’t a nuisance, it’s a bridge. It’s one of the most effective, immediate, and personal ways to reach your people today.
Let’s bust some common myths and help you unlock the real power of text messaging in ministry.
Myth #1: “People Don’t Text Anymore”
The reality is: they absolutely do.
- Text messages have a 98% open rate, with most being read within 3 minutes.
- In contrast, email open rates hover around 20%-30%, and social media algorithms can bury your posts.
Texting is still king when it comes to quick, direct communication.
“It is the best communication tool we have. We have seen the most engagement from Text In Church.” – Labon R.
“Text In Church has been our texting provider for the last 4–5 years and we’ve loved every minute of them! Highly recommended.” – Nick B.
If you’ve struggled to get people to respond or show up, it might not be your content, it might be your channel.
Myth #2: “Our Older Congregation Doesn’t Text”
This myth is slowly fading and for good reason.
While it’s true that older adults were slower to adopt texting, stats show texting usage among seniors is high.
- Texting is the primary digital channel those ages 50-69 use to stay connected
- According to AARP, 92% of adults aged 60-69 use their phones for SMS, instant messaging, or emails
They may not scroll TikTok, but they definitely check their texts.
Don’t count them out! They’re often the ones who appreciate a thoughtful reminder or encouraging note the most.
By assuming older congregants don’t text, churches risk alienating a significant portion of their audience. Instead, leaders should consider offering brief tutorials or encouragement to help older members feel more confident using texting. The key is to meet people where they are, regardless of age.
Myth #3: “Our People Don’t Want Us Texting Them”
Actually, they do. When it’s done the right way.
What people don’t want is spam or salesy content. But a timely reminder, a prayer text, or a quick follow-up that makes them feel noticed? That’s powerful.
The key to avoiding intrusion is to ensure your messages are relevant, timely, and add value. For instance, sending a quick “We’re praying for you” or a friendly reminder about a Bible study can strengthen bonds within your community. Additionally, offering an opt-in system ensures that recipients have given their consent to receive messages, making the communication both effective and welcome.
“Because of Text In Church, we can CARE for our people, and the greatest example of this is when we text and simply ask if there is anything we can pray with them about, the response is so huge!! Over and over people have commented how they love that we take time for them and they are connected to us.” - Neill R.
“Visitors have responded well to the messages and a few have said that they’ve never seen anything like it and made them feel like they mattered.” - Gwen L.
Instead of intruding, texting aims to connect with purpose.
The Power of Texting for Church Communication
When used strategically, texting can transform how your church communicates, engages, and grows. Here are three ways texting can make a difference:
1. Immediate Engagement
With a 98% open rate and most messages read within minutes, texting is unparalleled in its ability to deliver information quickly. Whether it’s a last-minute update about a change in service times or an urgent prayer request, texting ensures your message reaches its audience promptly.
2. Broad Demographic Reach
Texting bridges generational gaps, making it an inclusive communication tool. While younger generations may prefer social media, they still respond to texts. At the same time, older adults find texting to be a simple and effective way to stay informed.
3. Personal Touch
Unlike mass emails or social media posts, texting allows for a personal connection. A well-timed, thoughtful text can make someone feel cared for and appreciated. Whether it’s a birthday greeting, a thank-you note, or a quick follow-up after a church event, these small gestures can have a big impact.
Overcoming Barriers to Texting
1. Educate Your Team with Real Results
Share current statistics (like the 98% text open rate) and real-world stories from other churches using Text In Church. Start with our Case Studies pages (under the Who It’s For dropdown menu) to find examples that match your size and style.
2. Start Small and Build Momentum
Use texting for a single ministry or workflow such as guest follow-up or Sunday reminders. Once leaders and members see the impact, adoption will spread naturally.
3. Use Proven Templates to Save Time
If you’re not sure what to say, use the pre-built message templates in our Text Messaging Playbook. These ensure your texts sound warm and welcoming.
4. Listen and Improve
Ask your congregation for feedback through a quick survey or follow-up message. Their input builds trust and helps you tailor your communication to what truly resonates.
Texting doesn’t replace personal connection, it enhances it. And the more your team sees the results, the more confident they’ll feel using it.
How to Get Started
If you’re ready to see the power of texting in action, a great first step is to download the free Text Messaging Playbook for Churches. This resource includes every text message your church needs to boost engagement, complete with ready-to-use templates. From guest follow-ups to event reminders, the playbook takes the guesswork out of what to say and how to say it.
By integrating texting into your outreach strategy, guest follow-up plan, and member communication, your church can stay relevant, connected, and effective in its mission to serve and engage your community.
The myths surrounding texting are just that—myths. By embracing this powerful communication tool, churches can break through barriers, foster stronger connections, and ensure that no one falls through the cracks. Whether you’re reaching out to new guests, staying connected with regular attendees, or providing updates to your congregation, texting offers a personal, immediate, and effective way to communicate.
Don’t let misconceptions hold your church back. Take the first step today by downloading the Text Messaging Playbook and discover how texting can transform your church’s communication strategy.
