In the world of digital and social media church communication there are many individuals doing some great work and paving a path forward that the church has not been yet. Some of these individuals you may have had interactions with or have even seen a product of their work. Others might have slipped through the radar as they continue to work in the trenches of church communications. I wanted to take this opportunity to highlight them. Here is a small window into their world.
Brady Shearer is the founder of Pro Church Tools that seeks to help those in ministry “navigate the tricky world of digital media.” Brady lives in Niagara Falls, ON with his wife and daughter. If you don’t follow Brady on Snapchat it is a must. He not only provides weekly digital media tips, but he can tell some of the best stories around all while using Snapchat.
Here is my interview with Brady.
Meghan: Brady you did not necessary go to college specifically for digital ministry, so how did you get started in digital communications?
Brady: I was in my second year of Bible College, studying to be a youth pastor, when I got my first paid position at a church – media director. I knew very little about storytelling, cinematography, communications, or social media at the time, but my pastor says he saw something in me that made it worth the risk.
Meghan: Even though you did not start in digital communications you are now fully invested in helping churches use it to further the mission of Jesus. That is crazy awesome from my viewpoint. What would you say excites you the most about what you get to do?
Brady: Working with churches across the world. Every time I’ve attempted to step outside the church scene and help non-profits, secular organizations, or corporations, I’ve simply lost passion for my work. I feel bonded to the mission of churches. I can’t get away from it.
Meghan: There is definitely something about the mission of the church that is like no other. As exciting as digital ministry can be we all know there are moments that provide much difficulty. What is the hardest part of this job for you?
Brady: Leading my team. I’m a young guy (25 years old) and leading a team of 10+ is not something I anticipated ever doing at this stage in life. Sometimes I just want to curl up with my camera and make videos, but the vision I have is much bigger than that. We can only reach our final destination as a team.
Meghan: Amen to that. I am sure that you have definitely learned a few things along the way. For those just starting out in this business, what is one piece of advice you could give to someone?
Brady: Forget gear. Forget trends. Forget what you’re “supposed” to do. The most powerful form of human communication is storytelling. Focus your efforts primarily on becoming a storyteller and your other communications efforts will fall into place.
Meghan: Love that thought. So often we want to jump onto the latest trend and ride the waves, but at the end of the day, especially those in this church, have the greatest story to tell. We just need to tell the story. You do such a great job of doing this on the channels and platforms you are on. I appreciate your efforts in helping churches and leaders learn this art, because it is so important.
Ok. Brady, this has been fun and I have enjoyed getting to know you and your work better, but my last question might be the most important. Ready? What is your favorite cartoon character?
Brady: Give me Calvin and Hobbes e’rrday.
Meghan: Good to go with a creative storytelling classic. Brady thank you and for all you do for churches and the Kingdom.
If you want to connect more with Brady or check out his work you can check out the links below.
Website: http://prochurchtools.com
Facebook: http://facebook.com/prochurchtools
Twitter: http://twitter.com/bradyshearer
Instagram: http://instagram.com/bradyshearer
Snapchat: http://snapchat.com/add/bradyshearer1
Steven Gliebe says
Nice one. Brady always does things with excellence. I enjoy hearing what he’s up to. A team of ten? Congrats on that growth!
Brady Shearer says
It’s getting out of control, Steven!