---
title: What are delays and loops in routines?
description: "Routines are made up of actions. You can have the actions executed either immediately or with a delay and the planned actions can also be executed several times in succession with any delays. ## Delay actions By inserting a *delay*,…"
url: "https://staging.churchtools.academy/en/help/churchtools-modules/routines-groups/what-are-delays-and-loops-in-routines/"
updated: "2026-08-03"
category: Groups / My Group / Routines
---

# What are delays and loops in routines?

Routines are made up of actions. You can have the actions executed either immediately or with a delay and the planned actions can also be executed several times in succession with any delays.

## Delay actions

By inserting a *delay*, you can ensure that the subsequent action is only carried out after the set time period has elapsed.

You can enter a certain number of days or a fixed date for the delay.

[![Screenshot Groups Settings Routines Delay](https://staging.churchtools.academy/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Groups_Settings_Routines_Delay.png)](https://staging.churchtools.academy/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Groups_Settings_Routines_Delay.png)

## Have actions and delays performed again

You can use *loops* to repeat actions and delays. The loop frames all included actions and delays in the display. The sequence always remains the same.

You have the option of setting several *passes* for a loop or making it a *continuous loop* so that the routine starts again and again from the beginning.

[![Screenshoit Groups Settings Routines Loop](https://staging.churchtools.academy/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Groups_Settings_Routines_Loop.png)](https://staging.churchtools.academy/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Groups_Settings_Routines_Loop.png)

## Read more

- [Understanding routines](https://staging.churchtools.academy/en/help/churchtools-modules/routines-groups/understanding-routines/)
- [How do I create/edit a routine?](https://staging.churchtools.academy/en/help/churchtools-modules/routines-groups/how-do-i-create-edit-a-routine/)
- [What routine templates are available?](https://staging.churchtools.academy/en/help/churchtools-modules/routines-groups/how-do-i-use-routine-templates/)