I had the opportunity to visit with a group of pastors and church planters when I was in New Hampshire a few weeks ago. We had a discussion time about branding and marketing and some really great questions came out of that session which I will be addressing in the second edition of Branding for Church Planters. One of the most important questions though was how to get started with branding their church. I address this issue in Chapter Two of the book, but I want to hit on a few highlights here.

The first step to getting started with any branding is asking the right questions! I can’t state this enough. It is absolutely essential to dig deep and do some soul searching.

1. What do you stand for and desire to become?
2. What do you want to be known or remembered for?
3. How do you want people to feel when they experience your church?
4. Can you tell your story in a unique and compelling way?
5. Why should people check into and stay connected to your church?
6. Are you following your path or someone else’s?

Anytime I consult with a church planter or pastor I like to ask the hard questions. I don’t do this for the mere joy of trying to trip them up or make them uncomfortable but to really get to the “soul” of who they are and what they are about. They must know their vision and be able to clearly answer the questions above. This is essential for communicating who they are with clarity and focus, as well as determining how they will be unique to every other church.

So to get started on branding or re-branding your church, I would advise you and your team to start asking the right questions and the hard questions. The discovery process can be both exciting and painful but the results will be extremely beneficial for your church today and in the future.