After reading “Web, Tech & Worship”, I’m sure that many thoughts arise about what this blog will be about, whether it will be helpful, whether it will be interesting and understandable to the non-technically inclined or something completely different. At least these are the thoughts that came to my mind when I decided to offer to write it.
I can say this, we will have an exciting, challenging and – dare I say it – enjoyable experience putting the pieces together, and talking about how the web and technology (be it high-, mid- or low-tech) can contribute to our worship, mission and outreach efforts no matter the size of our church or ministry.
We’ll also be spending a lot of time on practical tips and tricks, things like:
- Creating website graphics using free software and images
- Making simple improvements to gain huge impacts on websites
- Helping volunteer workforces with technology
- Creating customized sound effects
- Creating a church email newsletter quickly using Mailchimp
- Getting Microsoft software directly from Microsoft at a 90%+ discount
What the “Web, Tech & Worship” title cannot tell you is my reason for wanting to write this blog. In the course of my work I’ve realized that there are many freely available technological tools that could further the mission of the church, yet:
- most churches are unaware of them OR
- there is awareness but volunteers aren’t available OR
- there is awareness and there are people willing to help but a starting point seems very distant.
It’s my goal to help make these situations a thing of the past!
You may be wondering what exactly I mean when I say “tools”. Any technique, hardware, software, website or web application is a tool that can be added to your personal technology toolbox. And if you don’t have one yet, you will.
Using technology well to further the mission and outreach of a/the church is my passion. And being able to do that using free tools is just icing on the cake.
We have been placed in this technologically focused and rapidly changing world at this time for a reason. It’s a world where, at least in the West, the church is facing incredible challenges not the least of which is declining attendance. Technology is a God-given gift that we can use to reach out and welcome new people to our sacred spaces.
I’m very much looking forward to this experience, sharing what I have learned with you and hearing your thoughts on the topics, tips and tricks we’ll cover. If there is a topic that you would like to hear more about, please drop me a note and let me know. If I don’t have an answer for you, I’ll find one or at least point you in the right direction.
Now, its time to start putting this puzzle together!
