I don’t write checks anymore. I pay all of my bills online. I read several newspapers, but more and more I read these papers online. Although, I still prefer to hold a book in my hand (especially my Bible), I am learning to read more and more e-books. Instead of running down to the library, I Google my questions. I’m learning to text, use social media. I DVR most of my television shows.
In short, I don’t do anything the way I used to. Neither do our people. And guess what? They aren’t going to do church the way they have in the past.
For instance, most of us know the 11 o’clock Sunday morning hour was selected to accommodate farmers who needed to take care of their animals. I don’t know about you, but few of my people are farmers. Yet, a lot of our young parents tell us the late time is very difficult for them and their young children. So, why do we still meet at 11? Because we always have…
Our people’s lives have changed. They want information when they want it, where they want it. This means a digital delivery system. I know a lot of us as pastors aren't comfortable with this process and its implications, but in reality, our people are already there.
Recently, I've been rethinking how I do what I do. For instance, the sermon now includes social media support and expansion, including a podcast, blogs, twitter, etc… It’s still interesting to me how eager people are to engage in a conversation through Twitter and email about significant issues of their lives and faith.
Here’s my point: The future is here and this future affects everything we do, even church.
Are you ready for this future?
What are you doing differently?
What changes have you responded to?
What changes do you see coming?
