Brandan J. Robertson, ed
Cascade Books, 148 pages | Published March 1, 2023
“The future of church is going to be digital; the question is how do we harness this for good?”
Rich Tafel’s question is just one of many from Building Your Digital Sanctuary, a provocative and practical new guide to sharing the faith online. Pastor Brandan Robertson gathers essays from those leading the way, describing worship, coaching cohorts, virtual book clubs, TikTok evangelism and more.
While the pivot to online worship in 2020 was messy and urgent, churches discovered new ways of connecting. These authors make the case that virtual offerings, embedded within local congregations or as stand-alone ministries, will be essential to the future of the church.
The essays are varied; some cover topics similar to any book on building a church, such as managing staff and volunteers (virtually), selecting equipment and creating welcoming spaces (also virtual). Others reflect theologically on what the sacraments, inclusion and a life of faith look like online.
While the authors are clear that digital ministry is not a replacement for in-person congregations, they are equally clear that it cannot be an “add-on sprinkled on top” of a pastor’s already busy schedule. Stephen Hale suggests starting with a basic question, “what are you trying to accomplish with your digital ministry?” and building intentionally from there.
Building Your Digital Sanctuary celebrates the possibilities, best illustrated by its editor, who regularly reaches over 1500 young adults with TikTok videos: “(I)t has never been easier to share our faith, to expand our digital sanctuaries, and to reach millions of people with hope and help for their lives.”
Presbyterian Outlook supports local bookstores. Join us! Click on the link below to purchase Building Your Digital Sanctuary: An Introductory Guide to Effective Digital Ministry from BookShop, an online bookstore with a mission to financially support local, independent bookstores. As an affiliate, Outlook will also earn a commission from your purchase.
Want to receive book-related content in your inbox once a month? Sign up here.
