Weekly Engagement Made Simple with Planning Center + Text In Church

Beyond Sunday: Why Weekly Engagement Really Matters
For many churches, Sunday is the main event. But real growth (spiritual and relational) happens in the space between Sundays.
That’s where weekly engagement comes in.
It’s not just about sending more messages. It’s about building a rhythm of connection that reminds people they matter, keeps them informed, and creates opportunities for discipleship throughout the week.
The challenge? Doing that consistently without burning out your team.
That’s where the Text In Church Messaging Add-On inside Planning Center comes into play.
A Weekly Engagement Rhythm That Actually Works
The goal here is simple: create a predictable, scalable rhythm of connection that’s both informational and relational. Here's how we break that down:
1. Monday – Encouragement + Recap
Start the week with something heartfelt. Whether it’s a short reflection on Sunday’s message or a verse to focus on, this message helps people shift their mindset toward spiritual growth.
Example:
Hey Jason—what a Sunday! If you missed the message or want to hear it again, here’s the replay. Praying this week you walk in the peace we talked about.
2. Wednesday – Midweek Ministry Touchpoint
Highlight an upcoming Bible study, small group, or ministry event. If your lists are already in Planning Center, this is easy to segment and schedule.
Example:
Women’s Bible Study meets tomorrow at 7pm in Room 4. We’d love to see you! Come for the coffee—stay for the community.
3. Friday – Weekend Preview + Personal Nudge
This is your chance to build anticipation and remind people you’re expecting them. A quick invite paired with personal encouragement goes a long way.
Example:
Hey Sarah! We’re wrapping up our Unshakable Faith series this Sunday—and we saved the best for last. Service at 9:30 and 11. You’ll love it.
Related: How to Boost Sermon Series Attendance with Text In Church + Planning Center
Keep It Simple. Keep It Scheduled.
The beauty of this rhythm is that it’s repeatable. Once you’ve written the core messages, you can tweak them week to week—and schedule everything directly from Planning Center with the Text In Church Add-On.
That means no juggling spreadsheets. No bouncing between platforms. Just clear, consistent communication using the lists you already manage.
You can even personalize messages with names, ministry tags, or past attendance—all inside one workflow.
How to Send Texts Directly from Planning Center Lists
With the Text In Church add-on, users can send texts to groups directly from Planning Center lists. Simply select the list you want, choose the “Send Text with Text In Church” option, and the message builder will appear, ready for you to compose and send your message.
Why It Works
Text messages feel personal. They cut through the noise. And most importantly, they get read.
With open rates near 98%, texting is the most effective way to keep your people engaged, encouraged, and informed.
When you combine that with Planning Center’s list management, it becomes a powerful tool for week-to-week ministry—not just event promotion.
Start with What You Already Have
You don’t need to reinvent your calendar. Start by building your weekly engagement rhythm around what’s already happening:
- Sunday recaps
- Midweek ministries
- Weekend services
- Prayer check-ins
- Volunteer updates
Then, schedule those messages in batches and let the Add-On do the heavy lifting.
Related: How Planning Center Users Can Encourage Prayer Requests with Text In Church
Try It Free and Build Better Weekly Rhythms
The weekly hustle doesn’t have to wear you down.
With the Planning Center Add-On, you can communicate clearly, care consistently, and create meaningful moments of connection without adding more to your plate.
Start your free trial of Text In Church today, and see how just a few intentional messages can transform your weekly ministry rhythm.