How to set up your church’s Google Business Profile

What is a Google Business Profile?

A Google Business Profile (you might remember it as “Google My Business”) is the free listing that pops up on Google Search and Google Maps whenever someone looks for a place - be that a bakery, a charity shop or in our case a church. It holds your address, contact details, worship times, photos and reviews in one tidy card, so people can get the essentials without hunting round the internet. Once you’ve claimed and verified the profile, you (or a trusted volunteer) can edit it at any time, keeping the information up‑to‑date.

Why does it matter for Methodist churches?

Think of the profile as your church’s online noticeboard. Most newcomers now begin their search for worship or community events on a smartphone; if your listing is accurate, Google will point them straight to your door, complete with directions, service times and accessibility notes. A well‑maintained profile also boosts your visibility in “churches near me” searches, helping you stand out among other local venues. Beyond visibility, complete and verified details build trust - photos of the church, recent reviews and correct opening hours reassure people that your congregation is active and welcoming. In fact, Google’s own guidance says clear, accurate information is rewarded with higher placement in local results. Keeping the listing current is therefore one of the simplest (and free!) ways to help neighbours, occasional visitors and holidaymakers find and feel confident about joining you for worship or mid‑week activities.

Step‑by‑step instructions

Before you start: You’ll need a Google account. If you don’t have one, ask a trusted friend or family member to help you create one at accounts.google.com.

Check whether you already have a listing

• On a computer or smartphone, search for your church name plus town (for example, “St Andrew’s Methodist Church Hull”).
• If a panel with your church details appears on the right‑hand side (desktop) or top (mobile), a profile already exists. Click Claim this business.
• If nothing appears, move to the next step.

Create or claim your Google Business Profile

• Visit google.com/business and sign in.
• Type your church name.
  • If Google finds a match, select it and choose Claim.
  • If not, click Add your business to Google.
• Choose Primary business category → Church (or Methodist Church where offered).
• Add your street address. Choose I serve customers at my business address (churches aren’t “service‑area businesses”).
• Enter a phone number and website (use your social media if you have no website).
• Press Next.

Verify the profile

Add the essentials

Once verified, click Edit profile and fill in:

• Service (worship) times – include Sunday and any weekday services.
• Special hours – Christmas, Easter, bank holidays or one‑off closures.
• Short description – a friendly 1‑2‑sentence welcome (“We’re a warm, inclusive Methodist congregation…”).
• Photos and videos – outside of the building, inside worship space, fellowship hall, recent events.
• Accessibility details – wheelchair access, hearing‑loop, livestream link if you have one.
• Contact options – phone, email, website, social media.

Post events and news

Use the Add update → Event button to advertise special services, coffee mornings or concerts. Add a title, start and end date, and a picture (a simple poster or photo works fine).

Keep it tidy

• Set a reminder to review the profile each month.
• Update it immediately if your minister changes, phone number changes or service times move.
• Encourage members to leave honest reviews – newcomers often read them.

Checklist