The 7 Technology Tools Every Church Needs

Helping You Connect, Communicate, and Grow in the Digital Age

If you're a church leader or admin wondering what technology your church really needs to thrive today, you're not alone. With so many apps, platforms, and tools out there, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. You may be asking:

• Do we really need a church app?

• Is livestreaming worth the investment?

• What tools help us grow without adding to the workload?

We get it. So instead of giving you a sales pitch, we're going to answer your real questions by breaking down the 7 essential technology tools every modern church needs—whether you're a small congregation or a multi-campus ministry.

1. Church Management Software (ChMS)

Why you need it: This is your digital command center. A good ChMS helps you manage people, track attendance, schedule volunteers, and handle giving—all in one place.

What to look for:

• Member database with notes and history

• Nursery check-in

• Groups and volunteer scheduling

• Integration with giving and communication tools

Top tools: Planning Center, Breeze, and CHUMS.

2. Online Giving Platform

Why you need it: Tithing isn’t just a Sunday thing anymore. People give when it's easy and convenient—especially online and on mobile.

What to look for:

• Recurring giving options

• Giving within forms

• Low processing fees

• Integration with your ChMS, mobile app and website

Top tools: Tithe.ly, Pushpay, RebelGive, and B1.church.

3. Livestreaming + Video Tools

Why you need it: Whether it's for reaching people who can't attend in person or expanding your reach beyond your zip code, livestreaming is now a must-have, not a luxury.

What to look for:

• Easy-to-use live broadcasting

• High-quality audio and video

• Archive of past sermons

Top tools: Resi, YouTube Live, Vimeo, OBS, and B1.church.

4. Church Website Builder

Why you need it: Your website is your digital front door. Most people will visit your website before they visit your church.

What to look for:

• Mobile-friendly, modern design

• Easy editing for non-tech staff

• Events calendar, sermon archive, and online forms

Top tools: Squarespace (with church templates), Nucleus, WordPress + Elementor, and B1.church.

5. Mobile Church App

Why you need it: A church app puts your content and community in people’s pockets. It’s perfect for engagement between Sundays.

What to look for:

• Sermon notes and livestream access

• Easy setup and editing

• Push notifications

• Event signups and giving integration

Top tools: Subsplash, ChurchBase, My Church App, and B1.church.

6. Email + Text Communication Tools

Why you need it: People miss announcements. You need a consistent way to reach your church during the week.

What to look for:

• Segmented lists (e.g., volunteers, small groups)

• Automated follow-ups

• Two-way texting

Top tools: Mailchimp, Text In Church, Clearstream

7. Presentation + Worship Planning Software

Why you need it: Running an excellent worship experience means coordinating slides, songs, and sermon notes ahead of time.

What to look for:

• Easy drag-and-drop presentations

• Song library and CCLI integration

• Volunteer scheduling

Top tools: ProPresenter, Worship Extreme, Planning Center Services, and Freeshow.

Final Thoughts: You Don’t Need More Tools—Just the Right Ones

Every church is different, and not every tool on this list will be the perfect fit for yours. But starting with these 7 categories ensures your bases are covered—from managing your people to engaging your community.

Got questions about which tools are best for your church? Drop them in the comments or reach out—we're here to help, not sell.