For years, a church app was a bonus for most ministries. But...

By 2026, your people will expect sermons, events, giving, and prayer requests—all on their phone.

Why? Because the majority of human connections outside the church walls are mobile.

TL;DR: In 2026, a church app will not be optional. It’s how you share info, boost giving, sign people up for events, and keep your congregation engaged. Here are 5 reasons your church needs one now.

Why Does My Church Need an App?

Churches have existed and thrived long before the app store was a twinkle in Steve Jobs's eye. But that doesn't mean an app wouldn't be a blessing to your church.

Here are FIVE reasons your church should consider an app...

1. Church Members are Mobile

Did you know that, on average, people spend 4 hours and 37 minutes per day on their phones? That’s about one full day each week.

With your church app, your congregation can stay engaged with your ministry every day of the week. You can share timely, relevant content and also provide visitors with an easy way to explore your mission and services.

Pro Tip: To drive greater engagement and make the app add value to the lives of your members, consider adding fresh content every week.

2. Member Engagement

Depending on the church app provider you choose, app users can create a church profile through the app, making it easier for you to maintain up-to-date records on your people. If they can create an account, they can update their personal info, which helps you know of any changes to that person.

Custom apps often improve brand loyalty. Your church app users spend more time with your ministry by using the app, making them more integrated into the church.

3. Mobile Apps Increase Giving

Donating to churches has been done the same way for centuries: People give what they can when they come.

But that means if someone doesn't come on Sunday, the church misses out on their financial support. With attendance rates dropping year over year, that's a growing concern for ministers across the country.

By adding online giving to your church's donation options, you give your people the chance to contribute when they're not in the building. This means your church could see more consistent funding. Even more so if your online giving platform offers recurring giving as a feature.

Adding a donation link or button makes it that much simpler for anyone to find where they can support your organization.

4. Easy Event Sign-Ups

Whether it’s a potluck, youth camp, or mission trip, event registration can be a hassle...unless it’s right in your app.

Members can browse upcoming events, register instantly, and even pay for tickets or trips without leaving their phone. This makes planning easier for your team and participation easier for your congregation.

5. Apps Strengthen Church Communication

Posting announcements, adding forms, scheduling volunteers, and sharing upcoming events are all possible in a smartphone app. These are key components in any church communications strategy.

An app adds another layer of contact with your people and an opportunity for your messaging to be more interactive.

Church Apps Are No Longer Optional

People are living more and more of their lives through their phones. You don’t have to be a tech wizard to launch something effective. And you don’t need to shell out thousands of dollars to get an app your church will love.

With tools like Church Connect already built into your ChurchTrac account, your church app might be just a few clicks away.

Church App FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about church apps...

Do we really need a church app?

If your goal is to reach people throughout the week, not just on Sundays, then yes. A church app helps you stay connected, share content, and engage your congregation where they already spend their time: on their phones.

How much does a church app cost?

Prices vary widely. Some custom apps can cost thousands to build and maintain. However, if you're using ChurchTrac, Church Connect is already included in your subscription at no extra cost.

Are church apps just for big churches?

Not at all! In fact, small and mid-sized churches often see the biggest benefits because an app helps them multiply their communication efforts without needing more staff.

Will Church Connect work on iPhones and Android?

Yes. With Church Connect, your church’s app is available on both iPhone and Android devices.

Do I need to be tech-savvy to create or manage Church Connect?

Nope. Church Connect was built for ministry leaders, not developers. If you can drag, drop, and type, you can build your church’s custom app experience. Plus, we offer tutorials and support to walk you through every step.

Can members give, sign up, and register through Church Connect?

Absolutely. You can include online giving, event registrations, volunteer sign-ups, forms, sermon links, and more.