Look Inside – Digital Religion

When the COVID-19 pandemic impacted congregations’ worship life, pastors quickly discovered power and reach that was in the palm of their hands all along. A number of pastors swiftly adapted to the pandemic-induced pause and propped their smartphones up in the front pew or in front of the pulpit and crudely live-streamed the first affected service to whatever social media platform they could. “Prior to the pandemic, we knew we needed a stronger online presence, however, it always seemed to be a backburner item because so much time, effort and attention was paid to in-person activities,” explains Rev. Ronnie Smith, pastor...