There are some great resources, blogs, and conferences for church communication leaders to check out.
While I’ve blogged about many of these in the past, here’s a concise section that lists all of them! I wasn’t paid for sharing these links and I don’t get any kickbacks or affiliate money for sharing them. These are resources that have proven their value to me, and I’m confident they’ll help you as you do what you do!
Below is my list of suggested reading. Also, be sure check out blogs/Twitter feeds I recommend as well as some of my conference picks!
Books
I believe these books represent some of the best books that are out there to help church communication leaders. Some are churchy, some are not, but they all have inspired me in my work and know they will add value to your ministry.
Less Clutter. Less Noise.
by Kem Meyer
If church communication had a Bible, I’m pretty sure this would be it. With her insanely practical approach, Kem shares her thoughts on church communication, encouraging all of us to declutter our message so the Gospel can be heard clearly.
Outspoken: Conversations on Church Communication
Various, Edited by ME! and Kevin D. Hendricks
I played a major role in assembling this book so I feel silly recommending it, but I do believe that the collected wisdom in this book offers a holistic view of church communication from bulletins and websites to leadership, social media, and everything in between. With over 60 contributors, it’s a one-of-a-kind resource for church communication leaders and pastors.
UNTITLED: Thoughts on the Creative Process
by Blaine Hogan
This great read will inspire you personally as you consider your creative process and the art you create. Sharing his wisdom from his experience both as a professional actor and creative director for a megachurch, Blaine offers invaluable insight for church creatives.
Pursing Christ, Creating Art
by Gary Molander
If you in any way remotely consider yourself an artist [and the truth is, all of us are artists in some form or fashion], you owe it to yourself to pick this book up because there are some great insights and hard truths you need to hear about yourself and your art.
From the Garden to the City
by Jon Dyer
Technology is shaping and changing the way we live our lives and the way we do church. In this exceptional book, Jon offers a pastoral perspective for the role of technology in our lives as believers and church leaders.
Viral: How Social Media is Poised to Ignite Revival
by Leonard Sweet (Releasing Early 2012)
I had the opportunity to endorse this project and cannot wait for others to have the chance to read it. In this book, Leonard Sweet shares how believers and churches can be a part of one of the most exciting times in the life of the church with the opportunities available to spread the Gospel through social media.
Creative Theology
by Sam Mahlstadt
True to its name, this book unpacks the theology behind creativity, tracing its origins back to the original creation in the Garden of Eden and reminds us all of our calling to reflect the creativity of our Creator.
REWORK
by Jason Fried & David Heinemeir Hansson
While this book is written primarily for entrepreneurs, I couldn’t help but see the correlation between ideas presented in this book and the challenges faced by church communication leaders. This quick read will inspire you to look at your work differently.
The Thank You Economy
by Gary Vaynerchuck
No other book clearly articulates what social media is all about than this book. Rather than offering pro tips or how-to’s, Gary shares what social media will ultimately mean for all of us.
Twitter for Good: Change the World One Tweet at a Time
by Claire Diaz-Ortiz
If your church needs help figuring out a strategy for using Twitter, this book will be an invaluable resource. While primarily focused on the non-profit space, this book will help you develop a solid framework for how you can leverage Twitter to share information and connect people with your church/ministry.
Poke the Box
by Seth Godin
I would wholeheartedly recommend any book by Seth Godin, and Poke the Box will definitely motivate you to start thinking, working, and creating differently.
A Whole New Mind
by Daniel Pink
This book provides a solid look at the difference between right and left brained thinking, or comparing the age of Gutenberg to the Google world we live in today. Pink introduces the six senses [design, story, empathy, symphony, play, and meaning] and how right brained thinkers are using them to create meaning and literally changing the world.
Making Ideas Happen
by Scott Belsky
This book was one of the most important reads for me in recent years. Having ideas is one thing; taking action is another. In this book Scott Belsky offers insights on how to move from ideation to action, and introduces the concept of the Action Method. It’s changed the way I work.
The War of Art
by Steven Pressfield
There’s a war for your art. In this book Steven shares sound advice for artists and creatives alike. This book has been foundational for many creatives and artists and is worth the read as you hone your craft.
The Brand Gap
by Marty Neumeier
This quintessential book will give you a crash course on branding. Your brand isn’t your logo but the feeling people have when they interact with your brand. It’s a simple read that will give you some excellent take-aways and things to think about as you focus on your church’s brand.
