From Pews to Pixels: 5 Tools to Empower The Church Community

Sunday mornings might give you a glimpse into what I do—you see the graphics, the videos, and the various service elements I prepare. But a lot of my work happens behind the scenes to support the Church in ways you may not notice. You know, just like Wi-Fi. You don’t see it, but if it stops working, everyone notices!

Colossians 3:23 (NIV): “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.”

At First Baptist Joplin, part of my role is to develop, refine, and discover technological tools that can enrich our Church community. Let’s explore 5 tools that are currently transforming how we engage and grow together.

Internal Technology
We categorize most of our tech tools into two main groups, and the first is Internal Technology — designed specifically for our Church members.

1. The App
You’ve probably heard us talk a lot about our app — and for good reason. It's a fantastic resource that puts many essential tools right at your fingertips. Here’s what it offers:

• Digital Bulletin: Every Sunday at around 8:55 a.m., you’ll receive a notification with our digital bulletin. It's packed with even more details than the paper version, keeping you fully informed.
• Prayer List: The app features an updated list of the current prayer needs within our Church community. 
• Events: On the Events tab, you can view upcoming activities, add them to your calendar, share them with friends, and find location and contact details.
• Media: Access past sermons and media content. You can download items, take notes directly in the app, and share sermons with others.
• Giving: Our online giving portal is built into the app for convenient and secure donations.
• Resources: While I’ll dive deeper into resources later, one app-exclusive feature is the Free Media Content Library, offering series like The Chosen (Seasons 1-3), The Bible Project, and more.

It’s basically like having the Church in your pocket—just, you know, without all the chairs! The app is available across multiple platforms—Apple (including Apple TV), Android, Amazon, and Roku.

2. Online Database (CCB)
You might also be familiar with our Online Database (CCB), which allows you to engage with the groups you're part of. From viewing messages and calendars to fulfilling group needs, it’s a centralized hub for Church communication and coordination.

Online Presence
Our second category of tools involves our Online Presence, aimed at reaching the broader community — but also beneficial for Church members.

3. Social Media
Follow our social media pages to stay updated on events and other important Church news. It’s an easy way to keep informed and share information with friends.

4. Website
Our website serves as a resource for both visitors and members. Here’s what you can do:

• Events & Sermons: View upcoming events and watch past sermons.
• Giving: Make donations easily through our online giving portal.
• Online Library: Did you know you can access our Church Library online? You can search for books, place holds, and conveniently pick them up at the Mobile Library Station in the lobby.
• Spiritual Gift Survey: Discover your spiritual gifts by taking our online survey, which provides personalized results.
• Serving Opportunities: Looking to get involved? Our Serve page lists all the ways you can plug into Church activities. Just fill out the form, and a Ministry Leader will reach out to you.

5. Live Stream
If you're out of town or unable to attend, our live stream keeps you connected. It’s also a great way for newcomers to experience a service before visiting in person. Be sure to say hello to our live stream host!

By leveraging these tools, we’re creating stronger connections, enhancing engagement, and making it easier for everyone to be part of the First Baptist Joplin community — no matter where they are. So whether you're scrolling through the app, tuning in to the live stream, or just trying to figure out how to work Roku, remember — God’s grace is faster than any Wi-Fi connection!