Built-In SMS Messaging
ChurchTrac provides one-way texting through Built-in SMS, allowing you to send messages to individuals, groups, or your entire church directory. You can also integrate with Twilio, a third-party provider, for additional messaging features. Learn More about Built-In SMS vs Twilio ›
Before You Text Your Church
Step 1: Create a Contact Card and Share it
To start, provide your church’s contact information so your congregation can save it to their phones. By doing so, they are consenting to their carriers that they wish to receive text messages and emails from the church.
Step 2: Read our User Guide on Preventing Blocked Emails and Texts
To make sure your church's communication reaches everyone effectively, it's crucial your members take specific steps to avoid issues like blocked messages. Follow these steps to ensure that your SMS messages and emails are delivered without any disruptions. Learn More ›
Fees Incurred During the Opt-In Process
Any and all messages sent back and forth during the opt-in process will incur fees. It's important to note, costs per message will vary depending on the platform you use and your region. Common interactions might include:
- The initial send
- An opt-in confirmation message
- A congregant’s opt-in reply
- A second message sent from the church
Even if the church does not receive a response message (one-way messaging forums), each message interaction will still incur a fee.
Sending Church Text Messages
Step 1. Select the Text Messaging Tab
The Text Messaging Tab is found by navigating to People > Messaging > Text Messaging.
Step 2. Choose who to text
You are given the option to text individuals or a specific Smart List or Group. ChurchTrac will only send SMS messages to individuals with a phone number in the mobile number field.
If you only want to include the checked names in your message, check the names on the People Screen first.
Then open the Messaging screen and select the "Include only the names that are checked on the People Screen" option.
Step 3. Compose and send your text message
Your text message can be up to 160 characters. You also have the option to send your text message immediately or schedule to send it at a later day and time.
Church Mass Texting FAQS
Of course. Just select the checkbox next to the name(s) on the People screen, then go to the Messaging tab. You will find the option to "Include only the names that are Checked on the People screen."
Though every ministry is different, the sweet spot for church SMS is between 1-3 texts per week.
Yes. If you send a single message to 80 recipients, you will be billed for 80 text messages.
If you send SMS messages with ChurchTrac's built-in messaging, the cost is $0.03 per SMS recipient. However, we provide up to 250 free credits for Plus Plan users based on your Name Tier (credits are per individual, not per text message). If you're on the 75 Name Tier, you receive 75 free credits; the 125 Name Tier includes 125 free credits; and the 250 Name Tier comes with 250 free credits. If you're on a higher Name Tier (500, 1000, or Unlimited), we recommend using Twilio, as you likely send a higher volume of messages. Learn More about Twilio Rates ›
ChurchTrac's built-in messaging is only available in the US and Canada. You will need to use our integration with Twilio to send messages in another country. Learn More about Twilio ›
We have an entire article dedicated to this. Learn More about Built-In SMS vs Twilio ›
Yes! With ChurchTrac Messaging you no longer need to pay for additional apps like Text In Church. We have an entire article dedicated to this. Learn More about Text In Church Alternatives ›
Yes, any and all messages sent back and forth during the opt-in process will incur fees. It’s important to note that costs per message vary depending on the platform you use and your region.
No, Automations using SMS only work with the Twilio integration, not with Built-in SMS.