What is RSS [as defined by Wikipedia.org]?

RSS is sometimes known as Really Simple Syndication. RSS is web feed format used to publish frequently updated content such as blog entries, news headlines or podcasts. An RSS document, which is called a “feed,” “web feed,” or “channel,” contains either a summary of content from an associated web site or the full text. RSS makes it possible for people to keep up with their favorite web sites in an automated manner that’s easier than checking them manually.

RSS content can be read using software called an “RSS reader,” “feed reader” or an “aggregator.” The user subscribes to a feed by entering the feed’s link into the reader or by clicking an RSS icon in a browser that initiates the subscription process. The reader checks the user’s subscribed feeds regularly for new content, downloading any updates that it finds.

What software is required to receive RSS feeds?

To use RSS, you will need a special RSS news reader or aggregator that will allow you to collect and display the RSS content. Several different news readers are available, many for free. Most news readers are applications that you download and install. Others are Web-based services you sign up for that work inside your browser. Click here to learn how to use RSS with Internet Explorer 7 and click here to learn how to use RSS with Firefox. In addition to using previously mention browsers there is a host of other stand alone application, both web based and desktop applications, which can be used.

How do I subscribe to an RSS feed?

To subscribe to RSS feeds from New Hope, simply click the RSS icon on the page. Your RSS news reader or aggregator should identify the element and add it to your reader. You may also right-click on the icon, select Copy Shortcut, and then manually paste the link in your reader or aggregator.

What RSS feeds are available at New Hope?

We have several RSS feeds available to keep you up to date and they are as follows. In order to subscribe to these feeds you must have you user access information for the New Hope website as supplied by New Hope. If you don’t have login information or have lost it you can request it from the New Hope staff.

• Pastor’s Thoughts
  This RSS feed is the Pastor’s blog.
• Alerts
  This RSS feed is the red section on the top of the home page when there is very important message. This message will only appear on the home page for 48 hours before it is removed automatically.
• Important Notices
  This RSS feed is the yellow section on the top of the home page when there is important message. This message will only appear on the home page for 7 days before it is removed automatically.
• Noteworthy News
  This RSS feed is the red section on the home page. Noteworthy news will appear on the home page continuously and will show the ten most recent news items.

Depending on your RRS reader/aggregator the above feeds could always show all entries with the newest at the top or only show the most recent entries. This will based on each application preferences and settings.