From Church Calls to Technology Calls

Written by Ted Evans

So often in our busy schedule to “make things happen” we spend too much time on learning technology rather than on learning what technology can do to help. I repeatedly find myself learning the technical side of computers and writing about my findings instead of sharing what computers can do to enhance my ministry. So this article isn’t technical. Instead, it is intended to share ways computers can help ministry assistants and churches with their ministries.

This article is not intended to add additional staff responsibilities or provide excuses to stop visiting your church members. It offers additional methods of staying in contact with your members and visitors by using technology. Nothing will replace personal, face-to-face contact; however, personal visits are not always an option. The opportunities discussed in this article show how technology, when used effectively, can be an additional caregiving tool for ministry assistants and other church staff. Here are some suggestions, using e-mail:

E-mail directory — If you have a church directory, be sure to add e-mail addresses. You need to get permission before printing members’ names and addresses in a directory or email. Most members will gladly grant permission for their email information to be printed in the church directory, but be sure to check carefully before publishing this information. It is a great way to promote communication. Use the newsletter to encourage members to use e-mail to care for one another. You also can use email to update the church directory regularly.

Prayer notes — If you have a prayer ministry, email can be used to address a note to members/attendees who have prayer requests. If possible, print requests with e-mail addresses. Also, ask for prayer requests regularly in the church newsletter. When a prayer request is answered, forward that information to those persons who are praying for that request. Being included in the entire process makes a real prayer partner. Also send email to partners concerning praise items.

Encouragement notes — Write e-mail notes to show people you appreciate their services. Examples are: soloist, Sunday School teachers, staff, and others who use their talents to serve the Lord. This simple act shows that the church staff really cares. Encourage the church ministers to use email for notes to add that special “I care.”

College and away persons — Send e-mail to persons away from home and church. Also consider email to regular members/attendees with special needs. Ask for stories or illustrations. Some of these might be shared with the ministers for use in sermons. Consider sending the weekly newsletter via email to persons living away.

E-mail sites for information — When you surf the Net, look for weekly e-mail publications that can enhance your ministry. Some of the sites you may want to consider are: daily devotional sites, ministry sites, leadership development, church growth sites, and computer Internet training sites. These sites e-mail you the information you requested on a regular basis.

Deacon care ministry — If your ministry involves mailings concerning deacon ministries, make your time more effective by using e-mail to notify your deacons and care ministers about opportunities. Also, keep these caregivers informed about people and their needs. Isn’t this what ministry is all about?

Ted Evans is director, Information Services Department, South Carolina Baptist Convention, Columbia, South Carolina.

Adapted from the summer 2001 issue of FYI: Secretary magazine. Used by permission.

Share your thoughts with other readers:  Post Comments   Rate this Article