This video clip was part of the first Hybrid Ministry course from Faith+Lead. Many of the details mentioned in the video are described further below.
Like many churches, Faith Presbyterian increased our tech engagement in March 2020, thankful we had already been live-streaming.
Our leadership first had to consider the why before venturing into this new (and costly) territory. As a welcoming, inclusive, and evolving congregation of the PC(USA), our staff and leadership unanimously agreed that we had to live out our tagline and evolve in ways to allow for continued engagement of our faith community. Our why was fairly simple: “Because we are intentional about staying connected even in times when we have to be physically apart.”
Hybrid technology was the “what and how”. We also realized that it would be a long-term solution for people who are seasonal, homebound, employed, or care-givers, because we would be making it more convenient for them to be a part of the life of the church as we started regathering for activities in person. Now that we were all in agreement, the next question felt daunting, “Where do we start?”
Between myself and two other staff members who had a passion for all things technology, we researched all that we could find about hybrid technology. This is only one example, right for our context. A major benefit of this tech set-up is that it does not need to be run by the pastor or a staff member. Anybody can run it for their own meetings.
Here is what we found that worked best for us:
- Hardware/Software & Compatibility –
- Logitech Video Conference Products based on range of cost and optimal audio and visual for both in-person and virtual participants.
- Logitech’s meeting room configuration tool was perfect for determining which products would work based on size and room usage.
- Zoom was the platform of choice and we took advantage of non-profit discounts through Techsoup.com.
- Location & Mobility –
- We identified two conference rooms that were best suited for permanently mounted hardware. Additionally, we retrofitted two rolling carts (that had been home to brochures/handouts) into mobile stations. This has been ideal for larger meeting spaces where a projector/screen is used.
- Ease of use –
- Facilitators, regardless of where they fell on the tech spectrum, would need to operate the technology relatively easily. An SOP accompanies each unit.
- Timeline & Installation –
- An online supplier was able to fulfill our order within two weeks. Additional cables and equipment (tv’s and mounts) were also purchased online.
- Our Director of Facilities installed all units due to the plug-and-play nature of the hardware and software.
- Cost –
- Totalling in just under $15,000. We were able to secure a $10,000 grant through our Presbytery. The balance was covered by member gifts and additional monies previously budgeted for technology.
Since completing the installation of all hardware and software, Faith has been able to make and keep meaningful relationships through the use of hybrid technology for ministry, including confirmation, Bible study, book groups, prayer services, memorials, meetings, and much more.
Your turn
How will God call you and your ministry to invest in such opportunities for the future of your church?
