Here are some basic items that every church webmaster should include when developing a site to reach people shopping for a new church [by United Methodist News Service]:

A welcome message, preferably from the pastor. People want to feel welcome, whether in the church itself or on the Web site.

Worship service times and descriptions of the service. Many churches now have several different types of service. To simply label a service "contemporary" or "traditional" is not enough.

Ministry descriptions. People shopping for a church want to know how the church reaches out to spiritually feed the congregation and the community.

Class descriptions. Highlight each class or small group with a brief description, meeting location and time.

Staff listing and contact information. A Web site that doesn't offer an opportunity to gain more information by e-mail, phone or snail mail is like the Yellow Pages without phone numbers. Include photos of staff members as well.

Core beliefs. Include a few lines or paragraphs about what your congregation believes as well as the theology of the denomination.

Upcoming events and a calendar. Church barbecues, yard sales, blood drives, etc., are often non-threatening ways for a person to visit a church for the first time.

Directions and map to the church. Do not rely on a person knowing how to get to your church no matter how long it has been a part of the community.

Building maps or floor plans. It's helpful for a person to have a general idea of how to get around your church before making that first visit.