EP279: Evan Connelly, Intercom.com, and Chat 2.0 for Churches
## Leveraging Live Chat for Enhanced Church Connection Creating Community Through Digital Ministry The recent episode of TCD podcast EPA 279 featured Evan…
EP279: Evan Connelly, Intercom.com, and Chat 2.0 for Churches
Leveraging Live Chat for Enhanced Church Connection Creating Community Through Digital Ministry
The recent episode of TCD podcast EPA 279 featured Evan Connelly from Lighthouse Church, who shared insights into utilizing live chat as a tool to foster community within the church. The use of
, a platform typically used for customer service, has been repurposed by Lighthouse Church to create personal connections between pastors and the congregation, both online and in-person.
Digital Tools in Post-COVID Era
Host Jeff Reed and Evan Connelly delved into the challenge of some churches devaluing digital tools post-COVID. However, their conversation highlighted the success of live chat, showcasing the church’s services beyond expectation, building a sense of belonging for onsite and online attendees alike.
Buy-In from Diverse Ministries
The commitment to fast response times and substantial engagement was central to the discussion. Lighthouse Church has managed to get a variety of staff, including pastors, elders, and directors, bought into the idea of live chat. They achieved this through regular team meetings, recognizing and rewarding good performance, and fostering collaborative environments.
Inclusive Digital Ministry for Introverts
Acknowledging ministry’s psychological effects, both Reed and Connelly, self-confessed introverts, discussed how digital ministry is particularly suitable for individuals like them. It allows for interactions that might be more draining in person to be manageable and even enjoyable in a digital space.
Expanding the Scope
Lighthouse Church’s chat, developed during COVID, demonstrates an understanding of digital space as an opportunity for accessibility and support. By integrating platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Google Business, the church has created a unified communication hub that allows swift responses and personalized connections.
Continued Innovation and Accessibility
Evan expressed the church’s future goals, focusing on improving response times and increased awareness of their chat platform. The desire for continued innovation emphasizes the significance of adaptability and the potential of integrating new technologies for ministry purposes.
Conclusion
The conversation at TCD podcast shed light on the value of incorporating live chat into church ministries. It suggests a progressive trend where churches can develop deeper connections with their community, resonating with the needs of a modern congregation.
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ON THE SHOW
Host: Jeff Reed
Founder, The Church Digital
Guest: Kenny Jahng
Online Campus Director, Lighthouse Church