Why Your Communications Person Should Be in the Room

A client told me recently that she asked to be included in her church’s ministry planning meetings—and it changed everything. “I didn’t expect them to say yes,” she said, “but once I was there, even the pastor realized what a difference it made.”

If you lead ministry planning meetings, here’s one simple thing you can do to improve your communication without adding more to your plate: invite your communications person into the room from the beginning.

Too often, the person responsible for communication gets brought in at the end. The plans are made. The details are set. And now they’re asked to “get the word out.” But without the context, purpose, or big-picture view, even the most capable communicator ends up chasing details instead of telling a clear story.

When your communicator is part of the planning process, they can help you think strategically about timing, messaging, and alignment. They’ll spot potential gaps and overlaps. They’ll understand not just what is happening, but why—and that makes all the difference in how it's shared.

So if you want better communication in your congregation, don’t ask for it at the end. Make space for it at the beginning.