Module 5: Starting Your Ministry
Now it's time to name your ministry, design a ministry website, and create business cards! Take your time and have fun with this business building part of the course. If you have any questions throughout this module, remember you can submit them via the form below at the bottom of the page.
To complete this module:
To complete this module:
- In sequential order, complete the three working lessons below.
- Execute all assignment action steps within each lesson.
Working Lesson 1: Name Your Ministry
You are now ready to create a name for your counseling ministry. You can either choose to title your ministry by your name, (e.g., Jane Smith Counseling Services at "www.janesmithcounseling.com"), or you can come up with a name that defines the type of counseling you offer. For example, let's say you decide to offer counseling to women who are struggling with eating disorders, you might name your ministry Feed Your Soul Christian Counseling at "www.feedyoursoul.com". Although not necessary, you may also want to consider creating a logo for your ministry.
To arrive at a ministry name, begin by first defining the following:
To arrive at a ministry name, begin by first defining the following:
- Who is your audience? Include your audience demographic and who your ideal clients are.
- What specific struggles and challenges do your ideal clients struggle with?
- What specific counseling services will you offer through your ministry?
- Write a brief paragraph describing your ministry.
Assignment
- Submit your answers to the four questions above. You will be using this information when designing your website.
- Submit three potential name options for your counseling ministry. Your name submissions will be reviewed, and feedback will be provided on the best name choice.
- Do not progress to Working Lesson 2 until your ministry name is finalized.
Working Lesson 2: Create Your Ministry Website
Now that you have a name and have defined your ministry it's time to create a website! There are many easy-to-use and affordable website services in the market today to choose from that can get you started with a professional looking website. Some of these services include Weebly, Square Space, and Wix. Consider selecting from one of these website services or shop around to find the best option for you. You may also consider hiring someone to build your ministry website but it is recommended that you learn to build and maintain your website yourself. Doing so will give you more freedom and flexibility when it comes time to update and edit your site. Note, you will also need to decide on a URL (website address) for your ministry. You will be prompted to register your URL through the website service that you ultimately choose. Keep in mind, when deciding on a URL, it needs to reflect the name of your ministry and can't be one that is already in use.
When starting, create a website that communicates where you are at now with your ministry. Don't worry that you may not have a lot of client testimonials or material to include on your website at this time. As you grow, you will update, add to, and refine your website little by little. The goal right now is to get a website up with as much accurate detail and information as possible.
Your website should include the following pages:
*As a counseling ministry, you can either accept donations in exchange for counseling or charge a set fee for your counseling services. If you decided to accept donations, it is recommended to consult with your CPA with regards to how best to report ministry donations (profits are included as part of net income on tax return). As you grow, may consider becoming a 501(c)3 tax exempt ministry which a nonprofit attorney can help get you set up with the appropriate registration. If you decide to charge a set fee for your counseling services, you will need to register your ministry as a business with an LLC designation. Consult your CPA on next steps for setting this up.
When starting, create a website that communicates where you are at now with your ministry. Don't worry that you may not have a lot of client testimonials or material to include on your website at this time. As you grow, you will update, add to, and refine your website little by little. The goal right now is to get a website up with as much accurate detail and information as possible.
Your website should include the following pages:
- Homepage (If using a logo, include it at the top of your website)
- Counseling Services (Include pricing if you decide to charge set fees for counseling) *
- Client Testimonials (Ask your test clients for a testimony and start with these)
- About (Include bio and a current photo of yourself)
- Contact (This is where you would include a CIF - go back to Module 3 for instructions)
- Donate (If you decide to accept donations in exchange for counseling services) *
- Ghost page: Couples Questionnaire (see example)
*As a counseling ministry, you can either accept donations in exchange for counseling or charge a set fee for your counseling services. If you decided to accept donations, it is recommended to consult with your CPA with regards to how best to report ministry donations (profits are included as part of net income on tax return). As you grow, may consider becoming a 501(c)3 tax exempt ministry which a nonprofit attorney can help get you set up with the appropriate registration. If you decide to charge a set fee for your counseling services, you will need to register your ministry as a business with an LLC designation. Consult your CPA on next steps for setting this up.
Assignment
- Email a link to your website for review.
- Feedback on your website will be emailed back to you for consideration. Incorporate any of the website revisions that you choose, and email a link to your revised website for a second review.
- Do not progress to Working Lesson 3 until your website is finalized.
Working Lesson 3: Design Business Cards
You may want to consider creating ministry business cards to give to potential clients. If you decide to create business cards, be sure to include the following information on your cards. Consider using www.vistaprints.com. Once your business cards are created, you can progress to the next module.
- Name of Ministry
- Your Name
- Title (Christian Counselor)
- Phone Number
- Website
- Logo (if using one)
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