I can remember many times sitting in the back row of my local church trying desperately to stay awake, and as I began to slump over and fall into blissful dreaming I would think: “Man, church is so boring.”
Let’s just say that as a teenager I didn’t quite “get it.”
And although I don’t particularly think that anymore, there are tons more who still do, and perhaps “Online Church” can help engage some of those people?
A recent study done shows that most people come online for “fun and learning,” which top the list.
Overall, though, these six categories, from common to least, were these:
- Learn
- Have fun
- Socialize
- Express oneself
- Advocate
- Do business
- Shop
Perhaps we have an opportunity to focus in on the things that really attract those that engage heavily online and create worthwhile experiences that capture their attention? Are we providing the right types of information and communicating it effetively?
@JoelBLK says
John, I would love to try church online. I read an article recently (it was probably an article you tweeted) that got me interested in trying it. Do you think you could post all the different online churches and the times they start? I hope they don't all start at Sun 6pm. Actually I hope that some are NOT on Sunday because is not a good time for me at all. (That would be a good reference, I think.)
Fred McKinnon says
I’ve noticed whether it’s a big place like lifechurch or local churches using livestream … the bulk of people there are socializing in the chat box, and other than commenting about the music, musicians, set, etc (like a lounge or something), there doesn’t seem to be real focus on what’s happening.
We’re about to do livestream, and part of me is tempted to disable the chat once the service starts – but that would probably have a negative impact on the experience.
Clearly, people do listen – I read testimonies all the time about people praying to know Christ from “online church” experiences. In my experience, it seems more like a meet and greet in the lobby than people gathering to participate in the service.
human3rror says
Fred,
am i going to see you this coming week in kansas…?
stephenbateman says
I think you're right. But it's still early.
human3rror says
Lifechurch.tv has a number of services daily!
Mikes says
Thanks for the great survey. one thing I as a blogger can really benefit from. from now let me focus on those needs/reasons why people go online.
as for the church online or not can still be boring when they don't get "it"! I mean when they don't truly and really understand what they're there for and who they are there for.
Jim says
church online rocks…i took part in a few online services while traveling this summer.