Objective
This article provides step-by-step instructions on how to send a mass text message (SMS) to your members using the Mass Contact feature. By following these steps, you will be able to communicate important updates quickly and effectively with your congregation.
▶️ Watch a Video Overview (3:40)
This video may include some out-of-date images. Please follow the written steps below for the most accurate process. We appreciate your patience as we work to update our videos.
At a Glance
Access SMS by going to Mass Contact → New Message → Text Message (SMS)
Messages must be 140 characters or less (longer messages split into multiple texts)
Use Groups or Recipients to choose who gets the message
Use the Shorten Links button to save space when adding URLs
Replies to SMS are delivered to the sender’s email address
Why Use SMS?
Text messaging is one of the fastest ways to reach your members—90% of text messages are opened within 15 minutes. Compared to email, SMS ensures urgent information gets noticed, especially by younger families and members who rely heavily on mobile devices.
Before You Begin
Estimated Time to Complete: 5–10 minutes
Required Role/Permissions: Access to the Mass Contact feature
-
What You’ll Need:
Active Groups or recipient lists
A short, clear message under 140 characters
(Optional) A webpage or form link for details
Steps
1) Start a New SMS
-
From the left sidebar, select Mass Contact.
-
Click New Message.
-
Choose Text Message (SMS).
-
⚠️ If this option doesn’t appear, you need to enable Text & Voice Messaging.
-
2) Choose Recipients
-
Use the search bar to select one or more Groups.
Click the gray “X” to remove any group.
Use Add Recipients to manually select individuals from the database.
Use Edit Recipients to uncheck specific people from the pre-populated list.
Include Options:
Group Members – All active members in the group(s)
Include Inactive – Adds inactive members too
Parents of Group Members – Sends to parents linked in Family Suite
Send to Yourself – Always recommended to preview the message
3) Compose Your Message
Add a Text Title (for internal reference only).
-
Type your message in the Body field.
Aim for under 140 characters to send as one text.
If longer, the system will split it into multiple messages.
-
(Optional) Use placeholders:
@NAME for first name
@FULLNAME for full name
4) Add More Information with Links
⚠️ SMS has a 140-character limit. To share more details:
Post the full content on a webpage, form, or document.
Copy the link to that page.
Paste the link into your SMS body.
-
Click Shorten Links.
This shortens the URL to save character space.
The link lets recipients view the full content online.
The system tracks click counts so you can measure engagement.
5) Schedule or Send
To send immediately, click Send.
-
To schedule for later, select Schedule for Later, pick your date and time, and click Schedule.
Scheduled messages are tied to the user who created them.
6) Log & Track
SMS messages can be logged as an Interaction on recipient profiles.
Replies are delivered to the sender’s email address.
Use unsubscribe keywords like Stop, Cancel, StopAll, Block for compliance.
FAQ
-
Can I send a message longer than 140 characters?
No. SMS messages over 140 characters are split into multiple texts. To share more, post the content on a webpage and link to it in your text.
-
What does the Shorten Links button do?
It only shortens a URL, saving space in your message. It does not increase the SMS character limit.
-
What happens if someone replies to a mass text?
Replies are delivered via email to the sender’s email address.
-
How do members unsubscribe from texts?
Members can text back keywords like Stop or StopAll. You’ll get an email notification when someone unsubscribes.
Related Articles
Updated
