Barna just released a new study that explores the top 4 ways that Millennials are integrating technology and faith into their lives.
The title of their findings was titled, “How Technology is Changing Millennial Faith.” I don’t think that technology is changing Millennial faith, as much as technology is a natural part of the Millennial life and technology naturally intersects with their faith as it does every other aspect of their lives.
In fact, I think the relationship between Millennials and technology is something that sets them apart from previous generations. Have a question? Google it. Have a thought? Share it.
The information superhighway was already paved when Millennials began the course of their lives, making technology an organic, natural connection that inevitably connects with their entire lives—including Millennial faith.
Here’s a closer look at Barna’s findings:
[Click for Larger]
Church Websites
Hey, local church, if you want to connect with Millennials, make sure your website doesn’t look like crap! With a third of all Millennials and over half of practicing Millennial Christians visiting your church website before setting foot in the church parking lot, be sure your virtual presence is an accurate depiction of your real-life congregation. Be sure to avoid any kind of dissonance between the two, as authenticity is more important than SEO.
Video, Search, Donations
We see similar numbers in regards to online videos. This not only highlights the importance of video streaming, but well produced videos that speak spiritual truths. With just as many Millennials searching for spiritual content online, video is an effective medium to use.
Since so many Millennials are living online, donating and giving to churches, ministries and non-profit organizations online is a natural thing to do. Unlike previous generations, the Internet is a trusted tool for financial transactions, so make sure your Millennials have a way to give online.
Game Changer
Most everything in this study was no surprise for me. What really stood out, however, was how Millennials tend to use their technology during sermons. As much as everyone wants to talk about tweeting during church, to find that many Millennials use the church wi-fi to fact check what their church and faith leaders are saying is pretty breath-taking, a real game changer. Because of technology use in the church, church leaders are now being held accountable in real-time.
Moreover, we see the importance for Millennials to engage in online conversations about spirituality. This is the corner that many churches need to become active. Church blogs need to become far more interactive, a place that pastors and church leaders have a chance to interact and have a two-way conversation with Millennial believers.
What are your take-aways from this study?
Speak your mind...