Embracing Digital Ministry: A Call to Latiné Pastors and Leaders
Understanding the Digital Gap in the Latiné Community
I am the Director of a Lilly Foundation-funded program at Urban Strategies called the Púlpito Fellows program, a three-year cohort program specifically created for Latino/a/x/é pastors and leaders [since we can’t agree on terms]. It promotes personal and social change by enhancing preaching skills that utilize technology to create compelling, relevant, and justice-centered messages for digital audiences. It is not a preaching 101 program but more of an introduction to the various ways people who are already preaching and teaching can use social media in today’s divided world.
We recently finished our first cohort and are now recruiting for our second cohort, a women 's-only cohort. My interest in digital ministry began before I wrote the grant for this program and was offered to direct it. I have been curious and dabbling in the digital ministry space since 2018—yes before the pandemic caused people to take digital ministry seriously.
As we navigate the 21st century, the importance of digital ministry cannot be overstated. However, many Latiné churches find themselves trailing behind in this crucial area. This digital divide is not merely a matter of technological lag but is deeply rooted in socioeconomic, educational, and infrastructural challenges.
The great thing about Púlpito Fellows is that we help communicators of the gospel use their cell phones and/or laptops to create content and engage with a digital audience. More is needed, of course, if the church (not just the leader) wants to do digital ministry well.
Understanding the digital gap in our community means understanding that many Latiné congregations lack access to the necessary resources and training to implement robust digital ministries. Economic constraints often limit the ability to invest in high-quality equipment and software. Additionally, there is sometimes a generational gap in technology use, with older leaders and members less familiar with digital tools. All to say, many in our Latiné communities do want to step into this digital space but the obstacles that usually keep us from many other things in life, also meet us here. But I believe there are things our community can do right now, like learn from others.
Learning from Leading Ministries
Despite these challenges, some ministries in the Black and Brown community have successfully navigated the digital landscape, offering valuable lessons for others. For instance, Mosaic Church in Los Angeles, led by Erwin McManus, has integrated a comprehensive digital strategy, from live streaming services to interactive online small groups. Michael Todd, the pastor of Transformation Church in Tulsa, Oklahoma, effectively uses social media platforms to reach a wider audience by posting daily inspirational and useful content.
In addition, we can learn from some churches that have become very dedicated to digital ministry and have hired Digital Ministers like Rev. Jim Keat of Riverside Church in New York City (who leads the digital ministry cohort I am a part of for Convergence) or Christ Missionary Baptist Church who have an Associate Pastor of Digital Ministry & Technology in Pastor Stacy Dandridge. I also love how The Gathering in Texas conducts its online service, with an opportunity to “talk back” to the preacher after the sermon. A great way to engage digital attendees!
These ministries exemplify the potential of a well-executed digital strategy. They prioritize engagement, not just broadcasting. They create a sense of community online, encouraging interaction and participation, making their digital presence a central part of their ministry rather than an afterthought.
The Importance of a Digital-First Approach
In my digital cohort, Rev. Jim Keats mentioned that we need to consider a “digital first” approach to ministry. For any community, adopting a digital-first approach is essential. It’s not enough to stream services and consider the job done, which many ministries seem to think is the trick. Here’s why:
1. Accessibility: Digital platforms can reach those who cannot attend in person due to geographical, health, or other constraints.
2. Engagement: Digital tools allow real-time interaction, making sermons and teachings more engaging and participatory.
3. Growth: A strong digital presence can attract new members who might not have discovered the church through traditional means.
4. Relevance: In a world where digital consumption is the norm, a robust online presence ensures that the church remains relevant and relatable to younger generations and to some in the older generations like Gen X who aren’t convinced being in the building is as important anymore for a variety of reasons I won’t get into here.
Creative Strategies for Digital Ministry
To effectively minister to our community and beyond, Latiné pastors and leaders must think creatively about digital ministry. Here are some strategies to consider:
- Interactive Sermons and Teachings: Use platforms allowing live interaction during services. Encourage questions, comments, and discussions in real time.
- Online Small Groups: Create virtual small groups that meet regularly for Bible study, prayer, and fellowship. Facilitate these meetings using video conferencing tools. Consider partnering for Bible Study with another church you align with so the digital load can be shared and more engagement in the discussion can be possible with break out groups.
- Social Media Engagement: Use social media to announce events and engage with the community. Share daily devotionals, inspirational messages, and practical life tips. This is what we work with our Fellows on the most. Learn to respond to comments and messages to foster a sense of connection. Make sure someone is dedicated to doing that and create a team so no one feels overworked.
- Multimedia Content: Develop various content, including videos, podcasts, blogs, and infographics. This can cater to different preferences and increase the reach of your message.
- Digital Outreach Initiatives: Use online platforms to organize and promote community service projects. Stream live events, workshops, and seminars that address community needs and concerns.
- Consider Your Staffing Infrastructure: Hire or get volunteers for a new digital ministry department. A pastor, a minister to lead and a few others on the team.
- Training and Education: Invest in training for both leaders and members. Bring someone in to offer workshops on digital literacy and the use of technology in ministry. A great resource would be my friend Jeff Reed started TheChurch.Digital to help people thinking about this area of ministry.
As Latiné pastors and leaders, it’s time to embrace the digital revolution. By prioritizing a digital-first approach, we can overcome existing challenges and leverage the power of technology to reach, engage, and grow our communities. Let’s learn from those who have successfully navigated this space outside of our Latiné communities and innovate to meet the unique needs of our congregations and the community outside of it. The future of our ministries, in no small part, depends on our ability to adapt and thrive in a digital world.
Let’s build digital ministries that reflect the vibrancy, resilience, and faith of our communidad.
NOTE: If you are a Latiné pastor, planter, or leader who preaches or teaches regularly, I invite you to attend our next Púlpito Fellows Women’s Cohort Zoom Informational on June 20th, 2024, from 12 pm to 1 pm EST by registering here. You can also follow us on social media; more information about us can be found on our site.
