I was asked the other day what I thought of the increase of Internet Pastors and how that particular position and vocation is shaping up. Casually I was asked whether I had a “definition” of sorts for what one is and I had some thoughts but I imagined a community effort would actually be a good exercise as well.
So, open thread in the comments: How would you define an Internet Pastor? What would you include?
Some things to mention and contribute thoughts about:
- Role? Responsibility?
- Experience?
- Tools/Technology/Web Experience?
- Does this change the understood role and definition of Pastor?
- What do they functionally do?
- Spiritual considerations?
- Does this change per denomination or theological framework?
- Who do they report to?
- Etc.
Cool. Love to hear your thoughts.
Technology know-how is important, but definitely takes a second chair to the basic requirements for anyone going into any pastoral role. The same qualifications in 2 Timothy 2-4, 1 Thessalonians 5 and Titus should be the basis. After reading SimChurch, I seriously changed my perspective of online ministry. If you look for a youth pastor based on his qualifications to be a pastor, and not just have rapport with the youth, why not have the same perspective for iPastors?
This is a great conversation to start up, and timely for me right now! I’ve been working on the same project for our church. Even though we’re a smaller church (150-200 TWA), I’m really excited that there will be a team for doing online ministry. I know enough web dev to get myself into trouble, and maintain my sites, but my heart is really for the people. Rather than spend a vast amount of time trying to define a specific person to do online ministry, why not look at how online ministry fits into the church’s overall vision and how it can help the church fulfill its mission?