Online Ministry Made Simple
By Mike Morris
My passion is to help church leaders overcome their frustration with online ministry. When we understand that online ministry is simply discipleship from a distance, we learn how to make connections and build relationships that allow us to share the Gospel effectively.
Online Ministry Made SimpleMar 19, 2022
The Need for Authenticity on Social Media
Welcome to Episode 15 of our Online Ministry Made Simple Podcast. Click here to subscribe and listen to the podcast, which is available on all major platforms.
We often hold off on posting online content because we want to only post quality content. But what if I told you that it's okay to post videos that aren't polished and perfect?
The reality is that people want to see our personalities and imperfections. They want to see the real us. When videos and online content are over-produced, it can feel fake and inauthentic.
Here are 5 Tips to Get Real With Your Content
1) It's okay to use your smart phone
Every video doesn't have to be shot with a DSLR. In fact, a short video shot on your phone is preferable for Instagram or TikTok.
2) Focus on good audio
Even if you use your phone, still make sure to capture good audio. You can do this by filming close, or by using an external microphone plugged into your phone or camera.
3) Edit using built-in tools
Don't spend too much time editing. You can edit in most social media mobile apps. Add captions, trim your video, and that's it!
4) Consistency is key
Get in the habit of producing content every week. It may be a daily or weekly devotional. It may be an opportunity to do a behind the scenes look into your ministry. It may even be a worship service at a different time. But you need to go where the people are.
5) Done is better than perfect
Don't let perfectionism keep you from being productive.
One large church that I follow did an excellent job during the early days of the pandemic. Their pastor went live every morning for a morning devotional. He used a Mevo camera and simply shared from his heart. I thought it was a great way of staying connected and allowing people to see him as a real person. The world is looking for authenticity. Let's share it with them!
Preparing for the Unexpected
Welcome to Episode 14 of our Online Ministry Made Simple Podcast. Click here to subscribe and listen to the podcast, which is available on all major platforms.
Do you have a love/hate relationship with technology? Have you ever experienced unexpected failures and crashes? In this episode, we learn how to prepare for the unexpected. I guarantee that eventually, you will have problems with the technology you use at church, but you can be prepared with a plan to handle any emergency.
One of the problems that many churches deal with is tribal knowledge. What is it? Tribal knowledge refers to any unwritten knowledge within a company that is not widely known. This could be actual data, such as passwords, or more abstract knowledge, such as best practices and processes. Because it is unwritten, tribal knowledge is typically shared by word-of-mouth (if at all). Often I find that only one person has knowledge about systems and processes, and when problems occur, documentation is not in place to help people solve problems.
In this episode, we share how to prepare and plan for four different scenarios.
- Scenario #1 - Your computer goes down before a service
- Scenario #2 - Your internet goes down
- Scenario #3 - Your livestream gets taken down
- Scenario #4 - Your volunteers call in sick
Here are two big takeaways
#1 - Document Everything
Checklists and flowcharts can be used to help your volunteers learn how to handle any situation. Go through different scenarios and write out processes and steps for your volunteers and leaders to follow. When you do have a problem, be sure to document what you did to fix it, so that you have that knowledge for future situations.
#2 - Discipleship is Your Goal
Every leader at every level in your organization should be training and discipling someone to do what they do. We have to fight against tribal knowledge and work towards developing new leaders. For more information about online ministry, please visit our website for online courses, podcast episodes, and blog posts that help simplify the complexity of online ministry.
Where should you host your livestream?
Welcome to Episode 13 of our Online Ministry Made Simple Podcast. Click here to subscribe and listen to the podcast, which is available on all major platforms.
Do you stream to Facebook, Youtube, Twitch, Vimeo, or another service? Which is best? How do you stream to more than one? In this episode, we cover the basics of choosing a host and introduce you to simulcasting.
Facebook offers an advantage of a pre-built audience for your livestream service. If you already have a church Facebook Page or Group, you can start streaming and see people start watching immediately.
Facebook also allows great interaction with comments and sharing, so that people can share what they are watching with their friends. Facebook has also started adding new features for churches, like phone call-in to listen, and the creation of online host badges for people commenting on behalf of the church.
YouTube is another good option. YouTube is where people are searching for answers to their questions, so it’s a great place to share sermon content and livestreams. It’s also easier to embed into websites than Facebook. YouTube is also easy to find on smart tv's and streaming devices.
Hosted solutions like Vimeo, Boxcast, Resi (Living as One), ChurchLab, and many others are great for giving you more control over your livestream. They give you greater control over embedding your stream and using it with your own website. They also offer better quality and help prevent your members from buffering problems while watching. Hosted solutions also give you the advantage of not having your stream taken down due to false copyright claims (which is happening more and more frequently on Facebook)
So what do I recommend? I recommend streaming to where your people are! For our church, currently, we are streaming to our website using Resi and the Church Online Platform, and letting Resi send our stream to Facebook and Youtube.
For a fee, Resi, Vimeo, Restream, and Castr, all let you send one stream to multiple destinations simultaneously. So you could send your live stream to Facebook Live and YouTube at the same time, and also use the Church Online Platform. You do need to remember that you will need to engage with the people watching on each platform.
For more information about online ministry, please visit our website for online courses, podcast episodes, and blog posts that help simplify the complexity of online ministry.
Using ProPresenter 7 to Simplify Your Livestream Setup
Welcome to Episode 12 of our Online Ministry Made Simple Podcast. Click here to subscribe and listen to the podcast, which is available on all major platforms.
Livestreaming your online services can quickly become complicated. The worship presentation software you use can either simplify your setup, or it can add even more complexity. One of the latest features of ProPresenter 7 is the ability to livestream your service directly. When you use ProPresenter, it eliminates the need to use another software program like OBS or vMix.
In this episode, we share a simple setup that enables you to livestream your services direct from ProPresenter. See the links below to learn more.
Links from the episode
- ProPresenter
- The Complete Beginners Guide to ProPresenter 7 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tb7UatDBGAI
- Information about livestreaming from ProPresenter - https://renewedvision.com/propresenter/streaming/
- Creative Uses - https://renewedvision.com/blog/4-creative-ways-to-use-propresenter-when-live-streaming/
- Resi and ProPresenter - https://resi.io/products/propresenter-stream/
- Restream - https://restream.io
- Blackmagic Ultrastudio Recorder 3G (affiliate link) - https://amzn.to/34jwCQG
- Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 USB Audio Interface (affliate link) - https://amzn.to/3uxSiD6
For more information about online ministry, please visit our website for online courses, podcast episodes, and blog posts that help simplify the complexity of online ministry.
What your church needs to know about Facebook and Meta
Welcome to Episode 11 of our Online Ministry Made Simple Podcast. Click here to subscribe and listen to the podcast, which is available on all major platforms.
If you have been watching the latest technology news, you have heard about the big change at Facebook. The parent company has been renamed to Meta, and their focus is changing to prepare for the metaverse. What does this mean for the Church? Is this something we should prepare for as well? In today's episode, I'll share what Facebook is doing, why it matters, and what we should do to respond as the Church. Our goal is simplifying the complexity of online ministry, and our goal today is to explain these changes in a way that everyone can understand.
Facebook is wanting to establish a vision for the future of the internet. So what does that mean for the Church?
- It means we need to be aware that the web is changing once again
- It means that we can wait until the new technology is established
- It means we can look for ways to supplement virtual content to what we already do
So, with the push into the metaverse, I am taking a wait-and-see approach. Let’s look at advantages, disadvantages, and dangers. And when there are opportunities that help us share the Gospel and make disciples, we should use them.
For more information about online ministry, please visit our website for online courses, podcast episodes, and blog posts that help simplify the complexity of online ministry.
Using Cinematic Mode for Videos on an iPhone 13
Welcome to Episode 10 of our Online Ministry Made Simple Podcast. Click here to subscribe and listen to the podcast, which is available on all major platforms.
Video is a huge part of online ministry. Seminary doesn't teach you how to create video content for your website, for social media, and for marketing and outreach. Generating video content doesn't have to be complicated. And with the latest iPhone 13 series of mobile phones, you now how the ability to record videos with a shallow depth of field (the Bokeh effect) that makes them look even better. Cinematic mode video on the iPhone can be a game changer for filming quick videos for announcements and events. Listen to this episode to learn more, and check out the following links for more information.
Using Cinematic Mode on iPhone 13
Gear Recommendations (Most links are affiliate links that help support my website and ministry)
- My favorite iPhone Case
- Saramonic Blink 500 Pro Wireless Microphone
- Rode Wireless Go II Microphone
- Rode VideoMic Go II Shotgun Microphone
- Osmo Mobile 5 Gimbal
Example Videos
For more information about online ministry, please visit our website for online courses, podcast episodes, and blog posts that help simplify the complexity of online ministry.
Livestreaming Challenges for Smaller Churches
Welcome to Episode 9 of our Online Ministry Made Simple Podcast. Click here to subscribe and listen to the podcast, which is available on all major platforms.
Smaller and mid-sized churches face unique challenges when it comes to livestreaming. Some experts would tell you that smaller churches should avoid livestreaming. But you know your community, your church, and your context better than they do. Over the years, I've seen smaller churches do an incredible job online with small budgets, and without expensive equipment. If livestreaming helps you accomplish your mission and vision, then go for it! In this episode, we talk about three challenges that smaller churches face.
Challenge #1: Slow Internet Speeds
Challenge #2: Small Budgets
Challenge #3: Not Enough Volunteers
For more information about online ministry, please visit our website for online courses, podcast episodes, and blog posts that help simplify the complexity of online ministry.
Productivity Tools for Busy Pastors
Welcome to Episode 8 of our Online Ministry Made Simple Podcast. Click here to subscribe and listen to the podcast, which is available on all major platforms.
As we start a new year, it's a great time to reflect on your weekly routine. If you are busy, then take the time to think through your systems in life. It can help you create healthy boundaries with your family and church, and it can end up saving you time throughout the year. For me, having a healthy rhythm of life allows me to get more done in less time. In this episode, I share some of the tools and tips that help me stay organized.
Calendar System
Task System
Note Taking & Organization
- Evernote
- Notion
- Bookcision (copy notes from Kindle)
For more information about online ministry, please visit our website for online courses, podcast episodes, and blog posts that help simplify the complexity of online ministry.
Using the ATEM Mini series for Church Livestreaming
Welcome to Episode 7 of our Online Ministry Made Simple Podcast. Click here to subscribe and listen to the podcast, which is available on all major platforms.
Today's episode is for the church that is interested in improving their basic livestream setup by using an ATEM Mini series switcher from Blackmagic Design. In this episode, I discuss the differences between the models, and share a typical setup for a church.
When the ATEM Mini switcher came onto the market, it was revolutionary because of its feature set and low price point of $295. And when they added the Pro Version, it became the perfect setup for small and medium sized churches. These devices are a hardware switcher, allowing you to switch between cameras (and computer inputs) to produce a professional livestream. They have advanced features that allow you to use Chroma Key, Picture-in-Picture, transitions, and much more. You can view the product page for a full listing of features.
Purchase Links (Amazon Affiliate Links)
For more information about online ministry, please visit our website for online courses, podcast episodes, and blog posts that help simplify the complexity of online ministry.
Basic Livestreaming Using Your Phone
Thanks for joining us for Episode 6 of the Online Ministry Made Simple Podcast
Today's episode is for the church that limited in funds, but still wants to livestream their service. Do you realize that the phones we use everyday are far more powerful than camcorders just a decade ago. Now I want you to realize that any church can livestream, but not every church should livestream. Your church needs to have a good understanding of why you want to start your online ministry, and you need to have people in place for the ministry.
What You Need for a Simple Setup
- a modern phone (android or iPhone)
- a tripod
- a power source (for extended live-streaming)
- a connection to your soundboard
- a zoom lens (if needed)
This simple setup will work well, but remember there are some drawbacks. The phone will need to be close to the person speaking, and it is awkward to start and stop the livestream. It can also be tough to route the audio to the phone.
Using Multiple Phones
For a more advance phone setup, consider using an app like Switcher Studio. It allows you to control multiple phones from an iPad. You can switch between phones for different camera angles, and you can start and stop the stream from the iPad. You can also use gimbals to pan, tilt, and zoom the phones. The biggest drawback to this setup is the cost, and the inability to integrate with traditional video switchers because of latency and delay.
Show Links
iRig Pre Adapter (affiliate link) - https://amzn.to/3oYNWSw
Switcher Studio - https://switcherstudio.com
Osmo Mobile 4 Gimbal (affiliate link) - https://amzn.to/326jBIs
Moment Zoom Lens (affiliate link) - https://amzn.to/3F0P25I
BeastCage (affiliate link) - https://amzn.to/3DYAKRN
Is Digital Ministry Biblical?
Thanks for joining us for Episode 5 of the Online Ministry Made Simple Podcast
Today, we address a foundational question to everything we do online, "Is Digital Ministry Biblical?"
As a pastor, I've been asked several times why our church is focused on online ministry. They assume that online ministry isn't real "church" and that by using online tools, we actually encourage people to stay home instead of attending church.
Part of the problem is our western understanding of church. We tend to view church as the building or the institution, and not as the people who attend. Throughout history, the church has adapted to technological advances and leveraged those changes to spread the Gospel.
I couldn't find a good definition of digital ministry, so I came up with my one.
Digital Ministry is Using Digital and Online Tools to Spread the Gospel and Disciple Believers
In this episode, we talk about
- Determining why you want to do online ministry
- Using digital and online tools to spread the Gospel and disciple believers
- Learning what Scripture teaches about discipleship from a distance
And as always, don't forget to visit OnlineMinistryMadeSimple.com to learn more about developing your online ministry for your church.
Show Links
Why you should always have a host for your online services
Thanks for joining us for Episode 4 of the Online Ministry Made Simple Podcast
Today, we address part of online ministry that is often overlooked "Why you should always have a host for your online services"
Whether you are livestreaming to Facebook Live, Youtube, or the Church Online Platform, you really need a host for your service.
What is a host? Lifechurch defines it this way, "If you think about your online ministry like your physical building, Hosts are like your welcome, next steps, and prayer teams—all in one. They play the important role of greeting attenders in the chat, answering questions, sharing helpful links and resources, and praying for people through one-on-one prayer. So, what do Church Online Hosts do? They do three easy but powerful things—welcome, discuss, and pray."
I would add a fourth role to watch and moderate comments on your livestream.
So let's get practical.
Who should host?
- people who are unable to attend your service in-person
- people who are spiritually mature
- people who are social media savvy
Where should hosts be located?
- they can be remote, and host from anywhere
- you can create a studio at your church in a spare room that includes all the equipment your hosts will need
- they can even be in your service on a phone or iPad watching the service and interacting
One final thing to consider - many churches have taken things a step further, and have online hosts live at the service, who are there to welcome, share announcements, and interact before and after the service. These are people who are comfortable on camera, and it really creates a connection with your viewers. It's just another way to move people from spectators to participants.
Helpful Links
- Host Team Training from Lifechurch
- Facebook Live features for Faith Communities (includes host badges)
- Church Online Hosts: Complete Guide
And finally, don't forget to visit Online Ministry Made Simple. Our online courses are on sale for the best deal we have ever offered. Check out our courses: A Complete Guide to Facebook Groups and Developing a Facebook Posting Strategy.
Why should we use the Church Online Platform?
Thanks for joining us for Episode 3 of the Online Ministry Made Simple Podcast
Today, we address a question that is often asked, "Why should I use the Church Online Platform?"
For many churches, the first step to online ministry is live-streaming their service to a social media platform. But if you want to take the next step and transition to an online campus, the Church Online Platform is a great solution for you.
What is it?
It is a service provided for free by the open network team at Lifechurch. It's the same group that has given us the Youversion Bible app. And it is a tool that allows you to launch an online service right on your website
Why should you use it?
- It give you a customized church experience - countdown timers - prayer requests - interaction - salvation followup - sermon outlines and notes - private chats - announcements - online giving links - connect cards - moments that are call to action steps
- Less distractions - With social media platforms like facebook, you have to deal with constant distractions. You will find that the average watch length for videos is much higher on the church online platform.
- Great analytics - It provides great analytics that allow you to track who is watching and for how long, including geographic info
What do you need?
1 - streaming platform - vimeo, boxcast, resi (can use youtube, facebook, or twitch for free - but not as easy - and you run a much higher risk of getting your stream taken down)
2 - online hosts - people that are watching and interacting
Show Links
- Church Online Platform
- How the Church Online Platform Works
- Streaming Providers to use with the Church Online Platform
- Training Online Hosts (great information for social media live-streaming and the Church Online Platform)
- My Church and the link to our live site for Church Online
Do we need a sermon podcast for our church?
Because you spend so much time each week preparing your sermon, I want to encourage you to get the message out to a wider audience. It's easy to take the audio from your sermon each week to create a podcast that can be downloaded and listened to on any device at any time.
Basic Steps
1 - Download It - you can download the audio from your livestream video, save the audio directly from your camera, or save it directly to an SD card or thumb drive on your soundboard
2 - Trim It - you can use free programs like Audacity or GarageBand, or you can use advanced programs like Studio One, Protools, and Logic. If you have the time, adding an audio intro is a great way to introduce the message and welcome your listeners.
3 - Master It - this is optional, but it really helps make the audio sound better. You can add eq, compression, noise reduction, and set your levels to ensure a great listening experience
4 - Export It - save it as an mp3 file
5 - Upload It - pick your podcast service and upload your audio
I recommend and use Anchor, which I think is the easiest and best way to get your podcast online. And it's free!
And finally, don't forget to visit OnlineMinistryMadeSimple.com - It's a great resource with blog content, online courses, and more to help simplify online ministry.
Should you continue your online ministry?
Welcome to the first episode of our Online Ministry Made Simple Podcast. Today we tackle the question, "why should we continue our online services, now that we are meeting in person again?"
I've seen this question pop up on many social media groups. The church leadership recognizes that their post-COVID attendance is lower, so they blame live-streaming for the reduction in attendance. Here are three reasons we need to continue our online ministry.
1) You should focus on people who aren't in your church, instead of people who already attend
2) You need to recognize that some people have valid reasons for watching online
3) The future of the church will be a combination of in-person and online
Don't give up! And don't grow weary. Galatians 6:9 (NIV) tells us "Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up."
Online Ministry Made Simple Podcast Introduction
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