Church Websites Are a Sacred Space for Midnight Visitors:

     Scott Thumma, a faculty associate at the Hartford Institute for Religion Research, found that between 1998 and 2002, the ratio of U.S. churches with web sites went from 11 percent to 45 percent. Most church sites concentrate on teaching and discussion. Some experiment with virtual meetings. The “i-church” is the first outside community to be fully recognized by the Anglican church—with more denominations to come.

     Innovations brought on by the internet have touched virtually all aspects of human life--especially religion. In addition to letting people stream religious services, websites can help people pray, read scripture, learn, and participate in online meetings (small and large groups), among other things.

     This approach to social media touts itself as “fresh.” It is flock-friendly, focusing on simplicity. Lack of attendance because of weather, gas prices, or distance have been eliminated. Additionally, this feature-rich delivery system, allows messaging, video, and audio uploads. Pastors can operate on a minimal staff to manage community interest--those looking to increase their faith, and staff who want to do online missionary work.

     Our YouTube channel (Churching Success) has numerous how-to videos on the many facets of church management and growth. Below are the resources mentioned in those videos.