In today’s world, partnering with a Christian web developer can make all the difference in your church’s digital presence.

Whether someone is checking service times, streaming a sermon, or deciding whether to visit in person, your website is often their first impression of your ministry.

In this article, we’ll uncover why most churches need to hire a faith-based designer and show you the best places to find them.

Why Hire A Christian Web Designer?

A Christian web developer brings something to the table that others simply can’t replicate: insight.

They understand how churches function, how ministries flow, and what pastors actually need. They know that “VBS” doesn’t stand for some tech acronym—and that the church calendar doesn’t follow the same rhythms as the corporate world.

They speak both church language and tech language, acting as a translator between your ministry vision and your website functionality. They can intuitively design with both visitors and members in mind, making your site welcoming, useful, faith-based, and ministry-driven.

Pros and Cons of Hiring a Christian Website Design Company

Pros: Ministry and Tech Insight

• Balancing visitor-friendly content with tools members need weekly (like sermon notes, livestreams, or giving links)
• Knowing what’s essential (hello, service times and location!) vs. what’s just noise
• Working with the church calendar, from Christmas outreach to summer camps
• Designing your layout for all generations, not just the tech-savvy

These aren’t just “nice to haves.” They’re critical to making your website an actual ministry tool instead of just a digital brochure.

Note: Search engine optimization (SEO) isn’t optional for churches anymore. You need a developer who knows how to help people find you online. Online presence is key! (Local SEO)

Cons: Hidden Costs of Church Websites

Many churches know they need a website, but few realize the hidden costs that can creep in. As you work with a web design team, ask them what costs are included and what costs are on you. Costs such as:

• Domain renewals
• Web hosting fees
• Plugin licenses
• Site updates
• Analytics (to track site visitors)

Traditional web development can strain church budgets quickly. And the cheaper DIY tools? They can cost more in time, stress, and frustration—especially when they aren’t designed with churches in mind.

That’s why it’s important to evaluate not just the price tag, but the value. What are you getting for what you’re paying? Are you able to update things easily? (Is your site responsive?) Is support included? Does it align with your mission (to share the gospel)?

Good stewardship isn’t about cutting corners. It’s about making wise investments in tools that actually help your ministry.

Finding Your Christian Website Designer

Before you hit Google searching “Christian web developer" or "Christian website design company," look a little closer—you might already know one.

Looking Within Your Congregation

There may be someone sitting in your pews right now who has the skills to help.

• Are they in IT or digital marketing?
• Do they build websites as a side hustle or hobby?
• Have they mentioned tech projects they’ve worked on?

Approach them prayerfully and respectfully. You’re not asking them to volunteer for eternity—just opening a door for them to use their gifts for the Kingdom.

Looking in your network and beyond

The best Christian web developers don’t always advertise. Most work by referral or already serve churches full-time. Here are the best ways to find one:

• Ask other friends who work in ministry who built their site (Facebook groups are great for this)
• Look at the websites of other churches you like and ask them who did their design and development (if it's not already listed)
• Ask local Christian business owners

Sometimes web searches can be helpful, but use caution with services that are listed simply because they're a sponsored ad.

The Best Approach For Churches & Nonprofits

For most churches and Christian nonprofits wanting to build a new website, the best solution is to find a website design service that will build you a turn-key website that you can drive afterwards. 

The added benefit is that they will be able to walk you through the entire design process and create graphic designs that will likely be better looking and be done faster than you can do in-house. 

Solution Spotlight: ChurchTrac's Church Sites Service

This is where ChurchTrac’s Church Sites Service really stands out.

• Website design made for churches
• Built by a team that understands ministry
• Affordable for any church size
• You have control to make your own updates as needed

And because it’s integrated with ChurchTrac's tools, it keeps your ministry running seamlessly online and off.

Your Website Is A Ministry

Your website isn’t just a line item—it’s a ministry tool. It can be the difference between someone visiting or staying away… 

If your current site isn’t doing what you need, it’s time to take a closer look.

Evaluate your setup. Explore your options. And if you're ready for a solution built just for churches, check out Church Sites from ChurchTrac.