Author: Ryan Dunn

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On this episode of Pastoring in the Digital Parish, we delve into the future of church ministry with our special guest, James Kang. James recounts his experiment called ‘Regular Church,’ which explores the combination of ministry in the metaverse with AI, and reveals the positive results of AI’s ability to process theological information and communicate with humans. We explore the growth of Pastoria, which began as a consultancy for ministries going digital but has evolved into an incubator model for generating ministries in various industry areas such as design, entrepreneurship, innovation, travel, and faith. He highlights the idea that these modalities can be seen as spiritual languages and encourages individuals to view their own lives and work in these industries as ministries.

We also discuss the importance of recognizing the demand for ministry work and quickly generating resources, focusing on finding the perfect fit for a ministry instead of striving for perfection.

James Kang is the founder of Pastoria, a consultancy-turned-incubator for ministries that focuses on digital transformation and self-expression. He believes that different industries, such as design, entrepreneurship, innovation, travel, and faith, can be seen as spiritual languages and opportunities for ministry. James is passionate about merging spirituality with various aspects of life and is dedicated to helping others find their own ministry within different modalities. To learn more about James and his work, visit pastoria.co.

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) Welcome to Pastoring in the Digital Parish
(02:38) How it started and how it’s going with James Kang
(08:40) Generative AI facilitates education, theological interactions.
(13:08) AI enhances access to knowledge, but it’s not perfect.
(16:50) Exploring the modalities of peoplehood and transportation
(21:34) AI-based relationship coach offers personalized guidance.
(25:35) Safer sanctuaries message
(27:43) Important lessons for ministry: focus on resources and people.
(33:54) Future church: less member-focused, more creator-focused
(39:41) Pastor role changes, focus on spiritual guidance
(47:34) Thanks for listening!

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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.”

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We’re joined by Charles Vogl, author of “The Art of Community”.

We discussed the need for intellectual, emotional, and action components in spiritual communities–no matter how they meet. Charles also emphasizes the importance of intimacy and vulnerability in creating meaningful digital experiences. We also look at the loneliness epidemic in America and how organizations can deliver on the three promises of community events to promote growth, connection, and freedom of choice.

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. Visit with Charles at www.charlesvogl.com

This season of Pastoring in the Digital Parish is made possible by: Safe Sanctuaries “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.

Find episode notes and more resources for digital ministry at www.resourceumc.org/digital-parish

In this episode:
[00:00:00] “Digital ministry strategies discussed with Charles Vogel.”
[00:04:13] Bridging the disconnection in society
[00:09:16] Promise of value creates community
[00:14:11] Remembering religion’s value sets
[00:17:24] Three components for healthy spiritual communities
[00:21:24] The hard work of digital community-building
[00:25:58] Missed opportunity to connect at events
[00:30:48] Three promises: choice, connection, growth
[00:33:40] (Ad) Safer Sanctuaries – comprehensive abuse prevention resource
[00:38:00] Misunderstood breakouts lead to toxic situations
[00:41:07] Podcast wrap-up, resources mentioned

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On this episode of Pastoring in the Digital Parish, we explore the intersection of gaming and ministry. Our guests shared insights on how playing games can build genuine community, especially in a digital-first culture. We heard from Joy Van Staalduinen and Laura Wittman about their experiences using games to engage young people and bridge the gap between in-person and online engagement, respectively. We also talked about playing table-top games like Dungeons and Dragons with other clergy members and shared how gaming can be a therapeutic tool and promote inclusion in church communities. Tune in to hear more about how gaming can be a tool for digital ministry and community-building.

Laura Wittman is an Ordained Elder currently planting The Mills Church in Rocky Mount. Laura has been serving in pastoral ministry for 16 years and her passions include collaborative ministry, Wesleyan history, and of course, Star Wars.

Joy Van Staalduinen provides pastoral care and education to individuals and faith communities through online coaching and the “Love and Loss” podcast. See does this internationally as she is based in The Netherlands.

This episode presented 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.

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

In this episode:
[00:00:00] Podcast about using games for digital ministry.
[00:03:28] Online youth ministry during pandemic still going.
[00:07:40] Exciting place, church planting during pandemic.
[00:11:59] Prefers D&D for family bonding and conversations.
[00:16:38] Safer Sanctuaries: comprehensive resource for abuse prevention.
[00:18:28] D&D and gaming provide inclusive creativity.
[00:22:49] Church provides relief for pandemic stress.
[00:27:27] Building sincere community through affirming fellowship.
[00:28:51] Games become lessons, fellowship and culture important.
[00:35:18] Church uses gaming to build community engagement.
[00:39:09] Check out episodes on online ministry tools.