This past weekend, I traveled to Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina to visit my mom, Carol, and my stepdad, Richard. It was a meaningful trip—especially since both have experienced some health concerns this year. Like many of you, they join our worship service each week via YouTube livestream. 

Sunday was the same routine—with one special exception. I had the privilege of sitting beside my mom while the three of us watched and worshiped together. What a blessing! With their large flat-screen television, it felt like we were right there in the sanctuary. We joined in prayer, followed along with the music, and were inspired by the message brought by our guest preacher, Dr. Ed Shepard. 

That experience reminded me again how powerful and personal digital worship can be—and how many people rely on it. It also raises some questions: How does it work and why does it matter? 

The People Behind the Camera 

Of course, our livestream doesn’t run itself. Behind every service are dedicated volunteers and staff who make this ministry possible each week. David Jordan serves as our media/tech team leader. Volunteers include Sharron Abell, Scott Krol, Jason Naggles, Anna Robinson, David Rodzewicz, and Wayne Stevens. Teresa Chiever, our Office Manager, ensures digital content is provided to the team. Karen Carps (GuppyFish Web Design), our webmaster and content curator, and her staff, play an essential role in both planning and posting. 

This team serves with humility, skill, and grace. I encourage you to stop by the sound booth one Sunday and thank them—or leave a comment on our YouTube livestream to show your appreciation. Even better, consider volunteering. No prior experience is needed—just a willingness to serve and a commitment to learn. To sign up or to learn more, visit https://hrbcrichmond.org/serve/ and complete the online form. 

Why Digital Worship Matters 

You might ask, “Why do we need a digital presence for worship?” 

The answer is both practical and missional. According to a November 2022 Pew Research Center survey, people attend worship online for several reasons: convenience, distance, health concerns, and physical limitations, to name a few. Lifeway reports that 69% of online participants tune in while caring for someone who is ill, and 48% join in while traveling. Twenty percent say they use the livestream to explore a church before ever visiting in person. 

And here’s a compelling insight: research from Zipdo shows that 68% of people check out a church’s website before making a first visit. A quality digital presence—both livestream and website—serves as the new front door to the church. 

Reaching Further 

In today’s connected world, a church’s digital platform is not just helpful—it’s essential. It allows us to minister to members and guests, shut-ins and seekers, travelers and caregivers, young parents and the elderly. 

I’m grateful for the generous giving of our congregation, which makes this ministry possible through our HRBC ministry budget. And I’m excited to explore how we can continue to expand our reach—to serve those in our pews and those still searching for a place to belong. 

Blessings,