Church & community websites
A church website that welcomes first-time visitors
What does a newcomer look for on a church website before finding the courage to walk in?
Alexander Zhdanov · · 2 min read
I have been a newcomer in every country in the world, and I know how much a warm welcome means in a new city. When I moved to Perth, Perth Baptist Church was one of those welcomes, so I built its new site pro bono. Here is what newcomers look for, step by step.
Step by step
Service times hidden
Put the next service time and address on the first screen.
Outdated events
A weekly schedule that updates itself means the page never shows last month’s events.
Nothing for newcomers
A short “New here?” guide: what to expect, what to wear, where to park. For international students and new arrivals, this matters most.
No online giving
Many people no longer carry cash. A clear, simple way to give online.
Child safety not mentioned
Families look for a child-safe statement before they bring their children.
Pro bono project
Example: Perth Baptist Church
Perth Baptist Church is Western Australia’s first Baptist church, serving the city since 1895. I built this site pro bono.
- Service times on the first screen
- A “This week” schedule that updates itself
- “New to Perth” guide for students and backpackers
- Online giving
- Child-safe statement
The bottom line
A church website is often the first welcome. Service times on the first screen, a schedule that is always current and a simple “New here?” guide make a stranger feel expected before they arrive.
Alexander Zhdanov. Traveller: I have visited every country in the world and written eight books about it. I studied at NIT in Perth and now work as a Digital Media Marketing Specialist at AK Digital Media. I audit and design websites through the eyes of someone who has seen how businesses welcome customers in every country on earth.
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