> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.church.directory/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.church.directory/getting-started/welcome-to-church-directory/how-to-launch-church-directory.md).

# How to Launch Church Directory

### Data Setup

We highly recommend this order of things for getting setup:

1. **Import data** -- Get all members' basic info (name, birthdate), and at least emails, added to Lightpost.
2. Begin adding prayers to the **Prayer List** feature.
3. Put some events on the **Calendar**.
4. Enable **Group Posts** for some smaller groups.  This is a great way to get communication flowing among the congregation.

### Member Announcement

Once you have those things going, and you're ready to get members logged in, you should:

1. **First** **announce** to the congregation that **Church Directory is available**!
2. Send "**Welcome Emails**" to everyone with an email address in Church Directory here: \
   <https://admin.church.directory/account/settings/welcome-emails>

We're here to help however we can, answer questions, and further improve and grow Church Directory!  🙂