Month: February 2024

Elevating Your Church’s Digital Strategy with Social Media Specialist Collin Johansson

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In this session with Collin Johansson we’ll learn why live video should be a cornerstone of your digital ministry and how you can craft social media content that not only connects but resonates deeply with your congregation. From creating engaging sermon clips to scheduling posts for optimal impact, we dive deep into strategies that will help retain newcomers, especially around high-traffic times like Easter.

If you’ve ever struggled with keeping your church’s social media fresh and effective, stick around. This is an episode overflowing with practical tips that could transform your digital ministry game.

Collin Johansson serves as the senior social media specialist for the United Methodist Communications’ local church services team. His primary role involves guiding churches to enhance their digital footprints across various social media platforms. Collin thrives on the opportunity to work closely with religious communities, finding excitement and purpose in helping them strengthen their online presence.

In this episode:
(00:00) Podcast: Building digital ministry; engaging congregation online.
(03:59) Video content enhances engagement on social media.
(09:49) Churches should focus on Instagram and TikTok.
(12:20) Effectively reaching out in digital church presence.
(14:02) Church involvement in community and volunteer opportunities.
(19:02) Posting live content on stories to engage.
(20:26) “ResourceUMC: One-stop shop for church outreach”
(25:54) Social media empowers churches to connect digitally.
(35:12) Discussing popular culture, creating topical devotional content.
(37:38) Canva is a great software for churches.
(41:04) New episode next week, peace to you.

Find more resources and tools for digital ministry: www.resourceumc.org/digital-parish

Extending the Sermon (with AI)

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Last year, we dipped our toes in the water of AI with an excellent primer from Kenny Jahng on what generative AI is, some ministry uses, and how to get started. Since then, I have personally used AI tools to help me refine and clarify my thoughts and writing, as a brainstorming partner in sermon prep, and I have even generated a few images for sermon series and church events.

Then, late last year, I ran across a new AI tool specifically tuned for ministry that seemed to offer many of the benefits AI offers – like saving time and bringing clarity – while also avoiding some of the potential pitfalls – like the AI just making things up. And for those of us specifically doing the work of church communications, this type of AI tool can help us streamline the repurposing of content your church is already generating week-in and week-out.

On this episode of the MyCom Church Marketing Podcast, we are talking about extending the sermon with the help of artificial intelligence. And we have the privilege of welcome the creator of one of these tools as well as a UMC pastor who is all in on discovering ways to use tech like this to make disciples.

Our guests today are Michael Whittle, the Founder and CEO of PulpitAI, as well as Rev. Chad Brooks, a UMC elder who wears many hats – from local church pastor to Conference Congregational Vitality Strategist to the guy behind the Productive Pastor extended universe.

 

Subscribe to MyCom and get additional information at: www.resourceumc.org/mycom

Reclaiming our roots as a church on the move

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When the Methodist Church was instituted in the U.S., it wasn’t an institution. It was a church on the move, says the Rev. Dr. Theon Johnson III, today’s guest on “Un-Tied Methodism.” Join Dr. Ashley Boggan D., general secretary of the General Commission on Archives and History, and Johnson, pastor at Downs Memorial UMC in Oakland, Calif., for a thoughtful and lively conversation about The UMC’s history of faith in action and how we reclaim our role as a church on the move.

Explore the United Methodist General Commission on Archives and History at ResourceUMC.org/ArchivesandHistory.

Interested in a deep dive into the earliest stories of Methodism? Sign up for a free, online, four-module history course titled “Radicle Methodism: Back to our Roots” at ResourceUMC.org/ArchivesandHistory/Radicle-Methodism.

Pastoral care in the age of technology

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Dr. Deanna Thompson brings a unique perspective to Pastoring in the Digital Parish, having been ministered to through digital means during her ongoing battle with an incurable form of cancer. Dr. Thompson recounts her journey from digital skeptic to advocate. Deanna unpacks the pressing challenges that face young people as they navigate the complexities of online communication without the seasoned guidance of adults, educators, and religious communities. We also explore the responsibility that educators and faith institutions must shoulder in fostering ethical online behavior and community-building.

Dr. Deanna Thompson is an author, speaker, and Director of the Lutheran Center for Faith, Values, and Community and Martin E. Marty Regents Chair of Religion and the Academy at St. Olaf College in Northfield, Minnesota. Several years ago, she wrote a book called “The Virtual Body of Christ in a Suffering World”.

In this episode:
(00:00) Exploring faith in the digital world
(04:01) Digital skeptic turned advocate for online connections.
(06:59) Digital technology as a tool with limits.
(10:21) Challenges of online navigation and misinformation spread.
(15:37) Challenges of digital pastoral care and advocacy.
(18:39) Vulnerability in sickness, online spaces offer solace.
(21:37) Discerning digital connection’s role in church mission.
(27:12) Church staff adapting to digital skills demand.
(30:40) Exploring the complexities of being a digital native.
(34:48) Discussing trust and boundaries in online spaces.
(38:02) Enhancing dialogue on compassion and ethics online.

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

Pastoring in the Digitial Parish is a production of United Methodist Communications.

[128] Lent, fasting and spiritual nourishment with Christine Valters Paintner

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We’re talking with Christine Valters Paintner about the spiritual significance of fasting and Lent. Christine, the founder of the Online Abbey of the Arts, shares her insights on how fasting can go beyond traditional ideas of abstaining from food and can instead be a way to open ourselves to a deeper encounter with the divine. Christine outlines the various forms of fasting, including from multitasking and inattention, and the practice of fasting from scarcity, speed, and certainty. 

Christine founded the Abbey of the Arts, a virtual monastery offering classes and resources on contemplative practice and creative expression. She is a Benedictine Oblate, poet, writer, spiritual director, retreat facilitator, teacher, and pilgrimage guide. She has authored over 20 books, including her most recent: A Different Kind of Fast.

In this episode:
(00:00) Liturgical seasons offer opportunities for renewal.
(04:29) Online community brings together contemplative practice, creativity.
(08:24) Embrace full presence by fasting from multitasking.
(13:31) Letting go of planning and surrendering control.
(17:39) Finding sacred moments in contemplative walks.
(20:44) Seeking nourishment for a famished heart.
(25:44) Seeking deeper connection to the divine mystery.
(28:37) Intensifying focus, choosing life-giving practices, practicing resurrection.
(31:10) Reflect, share, and explore spiritual practices.

Find episode notes at www.umc.org/compass

Compass is a production of United Methodist Communications.

Love yourself: A fresh perspective on 1 Corinthians 13

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1 Corinthians Chapter 13 often is referred to as the “love chapter.” Following the verses as a checklist of what love is, we might find that we’re better at loving others than we are at loving ourselves. But to practice the commandment that Jesus calls out as the second most important – Love your neighbor as yourself – it might be worthwhile to look at some of those verses from 1 Corinthians – “love is patient,” “Love is kind,” for the definition of self-love. Laurin Allred, a cradle United Methodist, joins us on “Get Your Spirit in Shape” for the conversation and challenges us to read the “love chapter” through a different lens.

More information and a full transcript of this conversation are available here.

Have a question or comment? Email us at gysis@umcom.org

Connect with The United Methodist Church by visiting UMC.org.

Building a Bible study for digital culture

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On this episode of “Pastoring in the Digital Parish,” we welcome back Rev. Nathan Webb to discuss the innovative approach to bible study outreach being employed by Checkpoint Church. Nathan shares the inspiration behind their unique bible study curriculum, “Jesus Loves Nerds,” hosted on Substack, which draws on trending video games and anime to engage the church community in a fresh and unconventional way. We’re going to get into the reasoning behind the subscription model, the delicate balance of content monetization, and the practical considerations of delivering and processing the material. 

Our guest for this session, Rev. Nathan Webb, is the founder and lead pastor of Checkpoint Church, an all-digital expression of church primarily focused on nerd culture and the gaming community. 

This episode offers a fascinating glimpse into the creative and strategic process behind building a relevant and sustainable Bible study for the digital culture. So let’s get into it on Pastoring in the Digital Parish!

In this episode:
(00:00) Nathan Webb discusses innovative bible study approach.
(06:29) Creating weekly digital bible studies for nerds.
(09:28) Church leaders considering monetizing content, facing pushback.
(14:17) Churches seek new revenue sources amid scarcity.
(17:41) Connecting with diverse interests, reaching new demographics.
(21:14) Delivering weekly content, guiding youth leaders effectively.
(23:12) Guided questions, activity, spiritual practice, closing prayer.
(27:05) Seeking affirmation for successful usage and expansion.
(29:41) Exploring online ministry and community building resources.

For more episodes and notes: www.resourceumc.org/digital-parish

Pastoring in the Digital Parish is hosted by Rev. Ryan Dunn. It is a production of United Methodist Communications.

Wesley brothers bring inspiration for your Lenten journey

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Just in time for Lent, Dr. Ashley Boggan D. is joined by the Rev. Dr. Steven Manskar to discuss his new book, “Lent & Easter with John & Charles Wesley.” Incorporating John Wesley’s sermons and Charles Wesley’s hymns, Manskar explains how, through the daily devotional guide, readers will prepare to reaffirm the baptismal covenant on Easter Sunday, all while better understanding the doctrinal standards of Wesley’s Methodism.

Learn more and/or purchase “Lent & Easter with John & Charles Wesley” at this link.

Learn more United Methodist history by visiting umhistoryhub.teachable.com.

Explore the United Methodist General Commission on Archives and History at ResourceUMC.org/archivesandhistory.

[127] Engaging faith and reason: Kara Slade’s spiritual journey

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Faith, science and life calling! In this episode, we have the pleasure of talking with Rev. Kara Slade, an engineer turned priest whose journey from the world of mechanical engineering to the pulpit is an interesting blend of spirituality and professional transformation. 

Rev. Canon Dr. Kara Slade holds a PhD in Christian theology and ethics from Duke University.  She also earned a PhD in mechanical engineering and materials science and then joined the National Aeronautics and Space Administration as a research engineer and test manager for a variety of civilian and military projects. Kara’s career took a turn towards ministry (as we’ll hear), and today she serves as associate rector at Trinity Church in Princeton, New Jersey. Along the way, she’s written many enlightening articles and a book entitled “The Fullness of Time”.

In this episode:
(00:00) Podcast episode featuring engineer turned priest’s journey.
(03:33) Career changes.
(06:53) Struggled with faith, left church, worked for NASA.
(11:28) Struggles with faith and government work post-9/11.
(13:19) Christian life involves repentance, brings whole self.
(17:07) Evolution theories shape human social and political beliefs.
(23:06) Assuming bias impacts technology, particularly for people of color.
(26:39) Scripture is primary, but don’t over-construct.
(28:47) Priest emphasizes humility and reason in faith.
(32:41) Exploring spiritual forces, justice, and cultural conflicts.
(38:03) Reflect on science, religion, share your thoughts.

Compass is a production of United Methodist Communications.

Find show notes and more episodes of Compass: www.umc.org/compass

Pastoring in the digital age: cross-over cast with Holy Roast podcast

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In this collaboration with the Holy Roast Podcast, pastors Ryan Dunn, Rob Tucker and Rachel Wallace explore the challenges and successes of online ministry and pastoring in the digital age.

The Holy Roast podcast equips and inspires local church leaders. This collaborative session covers the importance of maintaining a strong online presence, redefining success metrics for online ministry, and the theological considerations of communion in a scattered church community. We also got into a discussion on personal and professional boundaries in the digital world. There is a lot of valuable insight for digital engagement and pastoral care.

Explore more with the Holy Roast Podcast: https://linktr.ee/holyroastpodcast

In this episode:

(00:00) Exploring digital ministry with Holy Roast podcast.
(04:55) Vision casting, skills, practical experience, marketing relationships.
(08:12) Lockdown led to rethinking worship and community.
(10:42) Discussion about dwindling church attendance and adaptation.
(13:51) Pastors moved out of church for community connection.
(17:14) Redefining church success beyond traditional attendance metrics.
(20:18) Church digital ministry aims for growth and engagement.
(25:06) Advocating for hybrid education and outreach opportunities.
(26:01) Unanticipated digital presence challenges personal and professional boundaries.
(31:21) Defining healthy boundaries in digital presence.
(35:43) Churches use platform-specific content to define community.
(39:13) Utilize online platforms for church outreach effectively.
(48:15) Thanks, friends. Wrapping up digital parish sessions.

For more episodes and notes: www.resourceumc.org/digital-parish