The modern church is no longer a place of simple rituals and hymns. Today, churches are utilizing technology to create engaging experiences for members and visitors alike. From streaming services online to using modern audio-visuals in the sanctuary, there are many ways that churches can modernize their operations with technology. But how can you get started?
In this short guide, we’ll explore some practical ways to use technology to update your church’s offerings and engage more deeply with your community. We’ll look at everything from setting up an online presence to integrating modern audio-visuals into worship services so that you can make the most out of modern church technologies!
Get Online
First things first: modernizing your church starts with an online presence. This allows potential visitors to learn more about your church, watch videos of past services, and even donate online. To get started, you’ll need to create a website or utilize other digital platforms like Facebook and Instagram. Additionally, consider creating a church app that members can use to easily access resources like liturgy and upcoming events. Social media is also an effective way to spread the word about your church and its mission.
Integrate Audio-Visuals
The modern church utilizes audio-visuals in worship services and other activities to engage members and visitors alike. Technology can be used to display Bible verses, images, or videos to enhance the message. You can also set up a modern sound system with multiple microphones and speakers in order to better amplify voices and music during services.
Use Technology to Connect
Technology has made it easier than ever for churches to connect with their members and visitors. Utilize tools like online discussion forums, video conferencing, and e-mail to stay in touch with people outside of the church walls. Additionally, modern churches often use technology to host virtual Bible studies or seminars that can be attended by anyone with an internet connection.
Getting Started with Digital Ministry
What is digital ministry? Digital ministry is the use of technology to reach people outside of your church walls. From creating online courses to streaming services and events on social media, modern churches are increasingly incorporating digital tools into their ministries.
In many churches, there isn’t a digital ministry team. With so many people caught up in their online lives, it makes sense to reach people where they are, so prioritizing a digital ministry team is important.
Your digital ministry team can help manage your social media accounts and keep your website updated. Remember, social media is not a digital noticeboard, and simply posting event after event is not a good way to promote engagement and interaction. There’s not a problem in highlighting anything that is coming up, but don’t make it the sole focus of your posts – this is digital MINISTRY, not a digital calendar.
Got a website?
If you have, great! If not, you most likely need to get one up and running. Even if it ends up being a one-page effort that simply links to your social media accounts, getting a home on the web is a bold step in digital ministry.
You might think it will be difficult or expensive, but there are drag-and-drop website building tools out there that only cost a small amount every month. If you have the resource and skill within your church to go bigger, then by all means do so – but getting that first page online is crucial.
I need images!
You might have some photos you can use for social media and/or your website, but creating attractive graphics might seem like it is beyond your capabilities. However, tools like Canva and Adobe Spark make it easier than ever to create modern visuals.
What other ways can technology be used in a church?
- Livestreaming
- Enhancing the worship aspect of the service via modern sound systems
- Using modern projection systems to display lyrics, scriptures, or visuals during services
- Utilizing apps for church members to access resources like liturgy and upcoming events
- Creating online courses and virtual Bible studies
- Encouraging engagement with church members and visitors using tools like online discussion forums, video conferencing, and e-mail
- Enabling easy ways to give to the work of the church (digital giving)
- Managing church finances and human resources – ChMS or Church Management Software
Want something more in-depth?
Take a look at Building your digital ministry: Using technology for your church (Empowering your Ministry for the 21st Century), the new book from Smart Church Tech. It’s now available on Amazon in Kindle and paperback formats. It provides a more detailed guide for getting started with modern church technology.