Month: June 2023

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On this episode of Pastoring in the Digital Parish, we’re welcoming BACK Charles Vogl. We just spoke with him a few weeks ago… And during that time, Charles talked about a couple things we decided we needed to follow up. First, was that there’s a loneliness epidemic in our society. And that’s a clear need spiritual communities could be addressing. So we wanted to follow through on that and keep in mind how we can utilize digital spaces to facilitate meaningful connection. Charles also mentioned that it takes a bit more effort to build real relationships in digital spaces. So we wanted to follow up on some principles on facilitating valuable community connections.

Throughout this episode, Charles offers practical advice and insights on how to build a community that nourishes everyone’s need for connections.

Charles Vogl is an adviser, speaker, and the author of three books, including the international bestseller The Art of Community. Drawing on three thousand years of spiritual traditions, Charles teaches the wisdom and principles to build deep community and resilient relationships that foster innovation and integrity within organizations and around the world. He holds an M.Div. from Yale, where he studied spiritual traditions, ethics, and business as a Jesse Ball duPont Foundation scholar. His work is used to advise and develop leadership and programs worldwide within organizations including Airbnb, LinkedIn, Twitch, Amazon, ServiceNow, Meetup.com, Wayfair and the US Army.

This episode brought to us by:

Safer Sanctuaries: Nurturing Trust within Faith Communities is a new and comprehensive resource that continues the tradition of Safe Sanctuaries ministry by building on its trusted policies and procedures.

To learn more go to Safer Sanctuaries.org or call 800-972-0433.

In this episode:
(00:00) Charles Vogl on facilitating meaningful digital connections.
(03:32) Americans move more, leave religion, use social media.
(07:17) Differentiate relationship types to facilitate connection
(16:46) Barriers to connection
(20:10) Americans struggle with suicide and connection.
(23:20) “Few friends needed for major life change”
(26:36) Head, heart, hand experiences & ministry focus.
(31:45) Build trust by supporting growth and integrity.
(35:27) Vulnerability is important; leaders should go first.
(43:49) Podcast thanking supporters, promoting online resources, future episode.

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It’s time to level up the engagement in your digital ministry. If you’re looking for the next step in building a spiritual community online, this session has several useful tips and resources for your digital ministry toolbox.

Join host and proctor, Rev. Ryan Dunn, for another session of the digital ministry class you didn’t get in seminary.

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How it started vs. how it’s going in digital ministry with Brandan Robertson.

Brandan Robertson is a pastor who has found success with engaging content on platforms like TikTok. We discuss the importance of authenticity in today’s media landscape and how cultivating a sense of community can be a powerful tool for evangelization. We also delve into the challenges and pitfalls associated with digital ministry, such as the negative impact it can have on our spiritual health. Finally, we explore the unique calling that has led Brandan to become a bridge builder between different versions of Christianity, and how he confronts theological disagreements with empathy and love.

Episode sponsored by:
Safer Sanctuaries: Nurturing Trust within Faith Communities is a new and comprehensive resource that continues the tradition of Safe Sanctuaries ministry by building on its trusted policies and procedures.
To learn more go to Safer Sanctuaries.org or call 800-972-0433.

Here’s some info on our special guest for this session:
Rev. Brandan Robertson is a noted author, activist, and public theologian working at the intersections of spirituality, sexuality, and social renewal. Robertson is most known for his work as the “TikTok Pastor”, creating thousands of TikTok videos on inclusive theology which have garnered over 215k followers and 5 million views.

Check out Brandan’s book on digital ministry: “Building Your Digital Sanctuary”

For more from Pastoring in the Digital Parish: www.resourceumc.org/digital-parish

In this episode:
(00:00) Digital ministry, authentic content, community building advice.
(03:33) Theology teacher goes viral on TikTok.
(09:23) TikTok shared deep theology to thousands.
[00:12:18] Real pastors connect with people through TikTok.
(14:18) Creating sustainable spaces for counseling and resources.
(20:47) Evangelical bridge builder confronts fear with grace.
(23:06) Digital ministry in divisive times requires caution.
(27:37) Digital engagement and the importance of disconnecting.
(30:41) Churches need digital ministry and ministers.
(35:15) “Thanks for listening, check out resources.”