Page 10 - PC Fall 2023

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PRESBYTERIAN
FALL 2023
presbyterian.ca
Why It’s Vital to Claim
Your Church on Google Maps
By Jim MacDonald, Stewardship and Planned Giving
Have you ever tried searching for your church on Google Maps? If you see a message that says “Claim this business,” it means your church hasn’t taken control of its listing yet. This simple step is crucial because it opens up an amazing opportunity for free ad- vertising within your community. Let’s explore why each church Session should “claim this busi- ness” on Google Maps.
Establishing a strong on- line presence
Claiming your church on Google Maps is a fundamental step in establishing a strong online pres- ence. It allows you to connect with people precisely at the mo- ment they are actively looking for a church.
1. Get Found Easily: When a Session claims their church on Google Maps, you boost the chances of people dis- covering your church. Your listing will rank higher in lo- cal search results, making it easier for potential visitors to find you.
2. Ensure Accurate Informa- tion: Taking ownership of your listing allows you to keep essential details like
your church’s hours of op- eration up to date. This way, people searching for your church will get accurate in- formation, leading to a bet- ter experience.
3. Engage with Your Com- munity: When people leave comments or reviews about your church, you want to be able to respond and connect with them. By claiming your listing, you can engage with those who show interest or share their experiences.
4. Gain Valuable Insights: Claiming your church on Google Maps gives you ac- cess to valuable data. You’ll be able to see how visitors locate your church on both Google.com and Google Maps. This knowledge can help you better understand your audience and adapt your outreach efforts.
5. Mobile-Friendly Optimiza- tion: In today’s digital age, many people use their smartphones to navigate while driving. By claiming your listing, you ensure that your church’s information is optimized for mobile users on the go.
Getting started
To claim your church’s business
on Google Maps, you’ll need a Google account. Consider creat- ing a dedicated Google account for your church to manage the listing efficiently. It’s crucial to avoid using personal accounts of church members for this purpose, as it could lead to loss of control over the listing if they discontinue their involvement with the church.
Once you’re ready to begin, you’ll be prompted to verify im- portant details about your church, such as its name, address, phone number and website URL. You’ll also be asked to select the busi- ness category, which will usually be “Place of Worship.” Google Maps asks you to provide hours of operation for every day of the week, though it’s not mandatory. Some churches choose to show their weekly hours to avoid the perception of being “closed” eve- ry day except Sunday. However, if displaying hours might confuse users, it’s perfectly fine to skip this step. Still, sharing worship times on Sundays can be helpful for visitors.
To make your changes effec- tive, you’ll need a verification code. If your church’s phone number is already known to Google Maps, Google offers two verification options: telephone or text. However, most churches opt to receive a postcard sent by
Look for the “Claim this business” button on your church’s Google Maps listing.
Connection
Canada Post, which typically ar- rives within 14 days. Opting for the postcard method ensures Google that the updates are be- ing made by someone associ- ated with the church. Once you receive the verification code, sign into your church’s Google ac- count, find your church’s listing on Google Maps, and enter the code to confirm your changes. Once confirmed, your updates
will be published, and you’ll gain full control of your listing.
By taking control of your church’s listing on Google Maps, you open doors to greater visibil- ity, community engagement and growth. Don’t miss out on this wonderful opportunity to connect with more people in your neigh- bourhood! Embrace the power of Google Maps and let it help your church thrive in the digital world.
Moderator Signs Letter in Support
of LGBTQI+ People Worldwide
In July, the moderator, the Rev. Mary Fontaine, signed an ecumenical letter to the government together with the Anglican Church of Canada, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada and the United Church of Canada. The letter expressed support for the Government of Canada’s efforts to stand with the LGBTQI+ community in Uganda and around the world, and its call on the Government of Uganda to revoke the 2023 Anti-Homosexuality Act.
Read all letters to the government on The Presbyterian Church in Canada website at presbyterian.ca/letters.
NOMINATIONS OPEN
for the degree of Doctor of Divinity (honoris causa) as awarded by the Knox College Board of Governors
To honour people exemplifying critical aspects of Knox College’s mission, including through:
• Creative leadership at any level of church life
• Scholarly contribution to the church or academic community
• Effective and faithful pastoral leadership
• Creative leadership in mission
• Outstanding faith-based contribution to public life
Submissions due November 15. Details at knox.utoronto.ca/hdd.
KNOX COLLEGE
www.knox.utoronto.ca
2023 recipient the Rev. Dr. Peter Bush (Knox 1989 MDiv) and spouse Debbie Bush.
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