Using the updated guidelines (Church Internet policy,
Handbook 2: Administering the Church (2010),
21.1.22), I would like to create a website (not a blog) to help me manage my group (or aux.). I was wondering if anyone the Church had webhosting capabilities or if anyone could recommend a good one (that's free).
Personal Internet Use
When you use blogs, social networks, e-mail, or other Internet technologies:
- Mention the Church and link to approved Church materials when appropriate. You may share or copy Church media—including images, videos, and text found on official Church websites—if permission to do so is indicated on the website. Typically a “share” button or link is provided to indicate that you may share content. You may also refer to the site Terms of Use for further details. You may ask for permission to use other Church media online by sending an e-mail to permissionrequest@ldschurch.org.
- Express your personal witness of the restored gospel as you feel impressed to do so, led by the Spirit. The message should be personal and not given as if you were speaking for the Church. Go to LDS.org and click Menu at the top middle of the page. Under The Church, click Sharing the Gospel Online for helpful information.
- Develop your own materials that effectively convey your message.
- Do not form groups or develop websites or blogs that give the impression that they officially represent or are sponsored by the Church.
Personal Internet Use in Church Callings
When used appropriately, electronic communication, such as e-mail and Internet postings, can help Church members coordinate the work of the Church, strengthen faith, and minister to the needs of others. However, electronic communication should not replace opportunities for in-person contact, such as interviews and stewardship reports.
The following guidelines apply if you create a personal website or blog or use other Internet tools as part of your Church calling:
- State that it is not an official Church website.
- Include your name and contact information as the person responsible for the website.
- Refer, as appropriate, to your calling and the name of the Church, along with the name of the local unit and organization in which you serve. However, do not state or imply that the website or the information is sponsored or endorsed by the Church.
- Place links, as appropriate, to official Church websites on your personal websites. These links may contain graphics with Church logos. However, do not imitate or use the Church logo in other ways.
- Obtain proper permission before using artwork, music, or other materials if permission is not indicated on the website you take it from.
- Understand and comply with privacy laws in the area where you live. Privacy laws typically require that people be notified and that they grant express permission before their personal information may be collected, shared, or used in public settings.
- Use personal information found in stake and ward directories or other Church records only for Church purposes. This information should be shared carefully and only with those who need to access it to fulfill Church callings and assignments.
- Store or display others’ personal information on your website, blog, social network, or other publically visible software application only after notifying each person and obtaining his or her express permission.
- Safeguard personal information. It should not be included in electronic messages, such as e-mail, text messages, or instant messages.
