Getting Started with Ministry Mapper¶
Overview¶
Ministry Mapper is a web-based territory management system that helps congregations organize their field ministry work digitally. This guide will help you get started quickly.
How to Access Ministry Mapper¶
Option 1: Use the Hosted Service (Recommended)¶
The easiest way to use Ministry Mapper is through our hosted service:
- Visit ministry-mapper.com
- Create an account using the sign-up page
- Verify your email by clicking the link sent to your inbox
- Contact your administrator to get proper permissions for your role
Benefits of the hosted service: - No technical setup required - Automatic updates and backups - Better security and reliability - No maintenance burden
Option 2: Self-Hosting (Not Recommended)¶
Self-hosting requires significant technical expertise and ongoing maintenance. If you still want to self-host, see the Self-Hosting Guide for detailed instructions.
Quick Start Guide¶
For Publishers¶
- Create Your Account - Sign up and verify your email
- Get Permissions - Contact your congregation's territory servant for access
- Start Working - Access territories via assignment links and update addresses
For Administrators¶
- Choose Hosting - Use hosted service or self-host
- Configure Congregation - Set up territories and settings
- Invite Users - Add users and assign roles
- Maintain System - Keep data accurate and ensure privacy compliance
Understanding User Roles¶
Ministry Mapper has three main user roles:
- Publisher - Access territories via assignment links and update addresses
- Conductor - Assign territories, view all territories, and manage messages
- Administrator - Full control over territories, settings, and user management
For detailed information about each role, see the User Guide.
Common Setup Issues¶
Can't Create Account¶
- Verify you're using a valid email address
- Ensure password meets minimum requirements
- Contact your administrator for help
Email Verification Not Received¶
- Check spam/junk folder
- Wait a few minutes or try resending
- Contact your administrator
Can't See Any Territories¶
- Contact your conductor or administrator to get assigned access
- Publishers access territories via assignment links only
Can't Update Addresses¶
- Check your internet connection
- Verify assignment link hasn't expired
- Try refreshing and logging in again
For more troubleshooting help, see the User Guide.
Next Steps¶
For Publishers: Read the User Guide to learn all features and best practices for field service.
For Administrators: Review the Self-Hosting Guide for setup requirements and the User Guide for managing territories and users.
Getting Help¶
- Contact Your Administrator - First point of contact for access and territory questions
- Read the User Guide - Comprehensive feature documentation
- GitHub Issues - Report bugs and technical problems at https://github.com/rimorin/ministry-mapper/issues
Important Notes¶
- Internet Required - Ministry Mapper requires active internet connection
- Privacy Compliance - Follow local data protection laws (GDPR, CCPA, etc.)
- Training - Provide user training for smooth transition from paper to digital