Ways video and technology changed ministry

Even following a pandemic, churches aren’t hanging up their cameras
quite yet.

In the 1950's, Archbishop Fulton Sheen entered the homes of millions hosting the television show “ Life is Worth Living,” for which he received an Emmy Award. Some 30 years later, Mother Angelica proved her greatest critics wrong as she began Eternal Word Television Network (EWTN), one of the fastest growing cable networks, from the garage of her monastery.

From their courageous start, we have seen a handful of faithful others take to radio and Internet for religious programming and evangelizing.

Then in 2020, as the world shut down due to a pandemic, it seemed at times video and Internet were all we had. Amid unthinkable circumstances, the eCatholic team was inspired by our customers and all who worked diligently to keep church alive in the homes of millions through live streaming and technology.   
Today, as the tape is peeled from once empty pews and people return to Mass, many parishes and schools haven’t hung up their video equipment just yet. Instead, organizations are realizing how to serve more churchgoers who, at times, still need a digital window to participate in some of the Church’s ministries.

Here are ways video is making ministry more accessible than ever before:

1

Mass when we cannot not be there

Previously, very few churches streamed liturgies to make Mass available for the homebound, sick, or even distant relatives tuning into weddings and funerals. Then, during a pandemic we helped many Church organizations set up eCatholic Live so families could watch Mass from home. Today, many parishes have continued to stream liturgies for the homebound, and even add the option to wedding and funeral services.

Want help setting up a virtual worship page on your eCatholic website? Check out our previous blog: Creating a remote worship experience

2

Evangelization beyond community boundaries

As people watched Mass online, they also found themselves seeking and sharing priest homilies that inspired them. Some clergy even gained international followings for their weekly preaching, community prayers, or Q&A sessions. Suddenly blogs became vlogs, and popular preachers are continuing to share their message to more Catholics.

Need something more than a smartphone? Here are low-budget equipment ideas: eCatholic’s video equipment guide

3

Accessible school programs, formation classes, volunteer training

When we thought a pandemic would stop ministry, schools quickly took classes online and shared assignments through dedicated website pages. Volunteers viewed online tutorials for necessary training, coordinating programs or creating take-home packets. This catechist training and at-home instruction helped to engage more individuals who may have missed specific in-person sessions otherwise.

Want to stream videos beyond Mass? Discover more ways to use video: Going beyond Mass with live streaming

4

Events and fundraising invite more

When people were unable to gather, organizations turned their auctions and galas into virtual events, and were oftentimes blown away by the public’s response. Even entire conferences attracted record crowds with live video sessions and recorded keynote speakers. How can video increase access to your next parish mission, conference, or day of reflection event?

Need some pro video tips? Here’s a few video suggestions to consider for your next streaming event: Website video tips from a Catholic video expert

As you continue to evangelize beyond unthinkable boundaries with video, our eCatholic team will be here to support you every step of the way. What are some ways that you plan to use video as a primary tool of evangelization? Start the discussion with us by sharing your answers below!