Readers of JewPoint0 know we are pretty hot on Twitter and its potential for supporting the work of Jewish organizations and community building. You also know that we believe that Twitter is most effective when it is aligned with an organizations overall community strategy and culture.
Some of you may have already taken the plunge; others are still trying to get the hang of it. If you are looking for a good framework from which to consider integrating Twitter into the communications life of your congregation, take a look at Anthony Coppedges ebook, The Reason Your Church Must Twitter.
This highly readable publication lays out reasons for congregations to use Twitter and how it can be integrated into your communications and community building strategies.
Coppedge views Twitter as a means of engaging members in conversations; a way of accessing and getting to know congregational membership, clergy, staff, and lay leaders in different ways; exchanging information and putting out calls to action; and, supporting a sense of connection within the community as well as fostering connections with potential new members. In addition, he explains the basics of Twitter culture, how to get set up, and tips and techniques for effective communication.
The book is available online at $5.00 a copy (churches are encouraged to buy a copy for each staff member who would benefit from it, and to share it with volunteers for free).
Other articles and resources about Twitter and congregational life:
Reform Judaism: Cyber Innovations
Twittering in Church, With the Pastors OK, Time Magazine, May 3, 2009
Twitter Church post by Vertizontal
The Networked Congregation: Embracing the Spirit of Experimentation by Andrea Useem
Twitter Group: Jewish Social Network
Jacob Richman’s Twitter List including Jewish and Israeli Twitterers
Nine Great Reasons Why Teachers Should Use Twitter
Twenty-Three Interesting Ways to Use Twitter in the Classroom
Be sure to follow Darim on Twitter!