Technological advancement has a way of changing the world around us. Almost every business, institution, and individual is adapting to technology. Religion has not been left behind with churches finding new modern ways to reach more audiences. While togetherness and community worship remain relevant, churches are embracing technology.
This is something Father Rutler strongly believes in asking churches to keep up with the changing digital world. He knows the importance of using modern ways to reach new and bigger audiences. With more people spending time on their gadgets, churches have to look for new ways to reach and draw such audiences.
Changing Technologies and Religion
Changes in technology have happened over the years from printing press to internet radio. These changes have found their way into the church and affect how people practice religion. The technological development of smartphones and websites has had huge impacts on religion.
Most religious leaders believe worshippers need to meet, engage and have quiet meditation. This might not be the case with technology where people practice religion in isolation. However, the future of religion with modern technology is bright. There are several ways modern technology can positively impact religion. These ways include.
Virtual Congregations
Nowadays, religious leaders can post their sermons online and have a virtual congregation following. Most churches have active Twitter feeds, Facebook pages, and websites. Worshippers can find their way to their religious leaders without visiting the church. This is important especially during the pandemic period when huge gatherings were discouraged. Most religions found ways to meet virtually on various video platforms.
A search for the word “prayer” skyrocketed during the pandemic with people searching for ways to pray without necessarily visiting the church. Virtual church sessions are nowadays common as most churches embrace technology.
Building Websites
Almost all churches nowadays have a presence online. This can be on social media platforms or websites. Father Rutler agrees with churches having a presence online and reaching more people. While churches still want more people to attend mass traditionally, you have to reach such masses first and draw them in. This is why having a church website makes sense. Fathers and pastors need to spread the word of God. The internet remains the ultimate way to spread information.
Churches cannot be left on the ever-growing technology and changing trends. Creating a church website can draw more people to attend mass. There are several ways churches can use websites to create positive interactions with their congregations. This can be through podcasts, Christian Message Boards, online worship services. The church can also curate information through articles and have them posted on their websites. People searching for useful keywords like prayers can land on such websites and turn to followers of such churches.
This is a great way to convert new people to churches and have a bigger following.
Conclusion
As churches adopt technology, believers will find new ways to interact and connect with their churches. Most churches nowadays even have mailing lists where they keep in touch with their congregations. It becomes easier for churches to share any information, sermon, etc.