Email is still the most effective way to keep your shul’s community informed and engaged. But running a good email program requires more than just sending occasional newsletters. Here’s a complete guide to email marketing for synagogues.
Building Your Email List
Your email list is your most valuable asset. Start by collecting emails at every touchpoint: Shabbat and holiday sign-in sheets, your website, membership applications, and event registrations. Always get explicit permission — not only is it the right approach, it also improves your deliverability.
For existing members, send a re-permission campaign asking them to confirm they want to receive your emails. This cleans your list and re-engages your audience.
What to Send
The most successful shul email programs send a mix of content:
- Weekly Shabbat bulletin — parsha summary, zmanim, announcements
- Event invitations — shiurim, community events, fundraisers
- Holiday appeals — High Holidays, Purim, Pesach campaigns
- Community news — simchas, condolences, member spotlights
Timing and Frequency
For most synagogues, a weekly email (sent Thursday or Friday morning) works best. This gives members time to read before Shabbat and plan their attendance. Avoid sending during Shabbat and Yom Tov — schedule emails to arrive before or after.
High Holiday Campaigns
The period from Rosh Chodesh Elul through Simchat Torah is your most important email season. Plan a sequence: early August teaser, Elul reflection content, membership renewal appeals, and post-Yom Kippur follow-up.
Personalization matters most here. Address members by name, segment by giving history, and tailor your asks accordingly.
Deliverability First
All of this only works if your emails actually arrive. Use a kosher-content-optimized provider like KosherEmail to ensure your messages reach inboxes rather than spam folders. Learn about our platform features.