> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://guide.thefaithapp.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://guide.thefaithapp.com/features/notifications.md).

# Notifications

Instant Communication for Timely Engagement

**What Are Notifications?**\
Notifications enable your church to send **targeted push alerts** directly to congregants’ mobile devices, ensuring urgent updates, event reminders, or spiritual encouragement reach members in real time. Perfect for last-minute changes, prayer requests, or inspiring daily devotionals.<br>

<figure><img src="https://3561994977-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FozgT9Kc9d3ZjvD5urRvv%2Fuploads%2FRgQThsCxrmQYqODN6500%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=803a6ac9-caae-49e9-b7f1-c00287ac0027" alt=""><figcaption><p>notifications</p></figcaption></figure>

**How to Send a Notification**

1. **Navigate to Notifications**:
   * Go to the **Notifications** tab in your Admin Dashboard.
   * Click **+ Create Notification** to begin.
2. **Craft Your Message**:
   * **Title**: Write a concise, attention-grabbing headline (e.g., “Tomorrow’s Service Moved to Outdoor Pavilion!”).
   * **Body**: Add clear, actionable details (e.g., “Join us at 10 AM—bring a lawn chair!”).
3. **Review & Send**:
   * Preview the notification to ensure accuracy.
   * Click **Send Now** for instant delivery *or* schedule for later.

<figure><img src="https://3561994977-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FozgT9Kc9d3ZjvD5urRvv%2Fuploads%2FFvCgdSQHVD23qRABfR4T%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=1d54b3ec-a5d1-45c3-be38-3f31566c9460" alt=""><figcaption><p>create notification</p></figcaption></figure>

**Manage Notifications Efficiently**

* **Search**: Filter past alerts by date, keywords, or status.
* **Edit**: Modify scheduled notifications before they’re sent.
* **Delete**: Remove outdated drafts or sent messages from the log.

**Why Notifications Matter**

* **Immediate Reach**: Ensure critical updates are seen instantly via app alerts.
* **Flexibility**: Schedule announcements in advance or send urgent alerts on the fly.
* **Unified Communication**: Replace fragmented emails/SMS with a centralized, trackable channel.

**Best Practices for Effective Notifications**

* **Prioritize Clarity**: Keep messages short and actionable (e.g., “Tonight’s Prayer Night: 7 PM, Chapel”).
* **Personalize When Possible**: Use merge tags to address members by name (if supported).
* **Avoid Overuse**: Reserve push alerts for high-priority updates to maintain impact.