The new Roman Road was paved with the World Wide Web just a few years ago, unfortunately many from the pre- internet generations still have not adapted to the new Roman Road that the Gospel can travel over.
I recall when websites was a new novel idea for a church. Many remember a day when it would be a shame to not be listed in the phonebook and today I would advocate the same for churches with websites. Now with Web 2.0 and Video it is changing again and the church can literally now have their own broadcast station online and communicate across town or around the world right through their website if they wanted. With ever advancing technology, the opportunities for the church to share the gospel in innovative and affordable methods is simply amazing.
The era of self-publication is here! Years ago Radio and TV broadcasting seemed to be restricted to those ministries, who could afford such luxuries, but now a church only needs an internet connection, PC and camera and they can literally broadcast or podcast to anyone on the planet with minimal expense. Video streaming now makes it possible to broadcast live over the internet with far superior concepts then what TV can even offer.
One such ministry in the south that runs about 500 in attendance was only on local TV until streaming became affordable and accessible. Now they actually get people from the Middle East and other regions of the world thanking them for the gospel message coming to them live over the internet.
Streaming media for the church is not so much about the cost or challenge anymore, as it is more about overcoming the fears and embracing a much larger vision. With Streaming media churches can connect directly with missionaries and get live updates right from the field to the sanctuary, or they might record video clips and send them in video e-mail. Face to Face to video and audio communications is here and hopefully the church will be the leader in this era of streaming media.
Many tools and technologies services can even be found free for those who truly cannot afford a cent, but I recommend paid subscription services in order to avoid many of the offensive ads that often accompany FREE services. Web 2.0 is all about relationships online, and the church that ventures into building an online interactive presence is the church that will win and disciple a Web First Generation that exist around the world. The Internet and web 2.0 is bringing down the geographical boundaries that anyone and especially the church should consider the sake of gospel message.
Two years ago our small church of under 100 broadcasted VBS live to parents and family and then shared a live wedding from the sanctuary to distance relatives who could not physically make the trip. Video streaming is easy, affordable and changing the way many churches think about outreach and in reach.
By Peter Migner
Peter is both a pastor and entrepreneur with over 3 years experience in the streaming media industry. For more info regarding the system Peter uses go to : www.Ministrywebcasting.com
Welcome to my page. I am an ordained minister of the gospel in the Church of the Nazarene since 1991. As a minister I am available to assist couples with weddings ( male & Female) and families with funerals. If you would like help with planning a wedding my precious wife can also help with her amazing creative ideas. Please feel free to contact us about assisting in your families spiritual and celebration plans. requests@migner.com