Online ministry has helped churches reach people around the world and engage with them in ways that weren't possible before.
- Taking the Gospel to places we wouldn’t be able to go physically.
- Reaching people who can’t or won’t attend church in a building.
- Giving people an anonymous way to investigate questions about God.
Lives are transformed through online ministry … people who were feeling empty and without hope; people who were confused, lonely, and seeking; people who have turned away from dangerous decisions and destructive patterns.
Who connects with Church Online?
A wide variety of people show up at Church Online, and typically the community there could be described in four segments:
- Distant: people who are outside the physical reach of the Church
- Curious: people who would prefer to explore their interest in spirituality in an online context
- Mobile: people who are a part of our church, but are looking for an option to worship together because they are traveling or displaced
- Digital: people who prefer to experience much of their community in an online context
Is church online the right answer for every church?
No. Before you make a decision, it's a good idea to gather your team and prayerfully consider the full scope of online ministry.
Questions to discuss before your team launches a church online
Are our leaders excited by the potential for online ministry?
Are we prepared with a team who can minister to the people who engage with our online ministry?
Do we understand that online ministry will look different than ministry at our physical location? Are we prepared to adapt or offer alternate processes, programs, and ministries?
How will we baptize people and serve communion in an online environment?
How will we help people who prefer to remain anonymous and avoid the kinds of relationships where accountability can occur?
How will we meet the physical needs of our people, like hospital visits?
The Bottom Line
More important than the tools or technology you use in online church environments is your purpose for being there—connecting people to Christ and each other within a loving, supportive, and active community.