Improving parish web sites topic of September 15 webinar

“Improving Your Parish Web Site” will be the topic of a webinar conducted by Joseph Kormos, Parish Development Ministry leader for the Diocese of the Midwest, on Thursday, September 15, 2011, at 7:00 p.m. CDT/8:00 p.m. EDT.

Mr. Kormos will moderate the discussion on strengthening communications with parishioners, neighbors and potential new members.

“Orthodox Christians looking for a parish home will first encounter your parish on the web through your web site,” said Mr. Kormos.  “Inquirers looking to experience Orthodoxy may use your website to decide whether to ‘taste and see.’  Parishioners looking for schedule and other information want to go to a web site that is easy to navigate and consistently up to date.  An ineffective web site can limit how your parish project’s itself to the world.  An inaccurate one can set inaccurate expectations for visitors.”

The webinar, which is open to everyone, regardless of diocese or jurisdiction, will be useful for clergy, parish webmasters, parish council and ministry leaders, and even parish bulletin contributors—anyone interested in helping their parish positively present its life in Christ to others will find value here.

Topics include setting parish web site objectives, balancing internal and external audiences, understanding your audience, telling your parish story, and common parish website mistakes.  Additional webinar content will be adapted to the needs and interests of participants.

“We may review the strengths and weaknesses of a few real parish web sites,” Mr. Kormos added.  “If an attendee would like to have his or her web site considered, please indicate that at the time of registration.”

There is no charge to participate.  To register, visit www1.gotomeeting.com/register/213338288.