Live streaming makes it possible for everybody to still celebrate Christmas as a church family and to invite new people to experience church who normally wouldn’t attend otherwise. Some people don’t feel comfortable or maybe they’re under the weather and aren’t able to attend your Holiday services. Others are traveling or out of town. It’s also an incredible opportunity to share the gospel because more people, including non-Christians, are more likely to attend worship services on Christmas Eve than any other day of the year. But wait, there’s more!
Besides Christmas or Christmas Eve Services you could stream:
- A Christmas Play
- Christmas Choir or Concert
- Christmas Children’s and/or Youth Program
- Special Sermons for Advent
Before you just jump in and start streaming, make sure you run through a few things so the online experience is a positive one.
1. Test stream before going live.
One key to a successful live stream is to test it before going live. You’ll want to ensure all your video and audio equipment are operating correctly. To ensure a quality viewing experience, testing it beforehand will make a big difference.
2. Always include the viewers.
Make the congregation who is attending online feel like they are part of your service. Welcome them at the beginning. Look at the camera throughout the message and talk to the online audience as well as the people who are attending in-person. This will make everyone feel included no matter where they are watching.
3. Have a team for live chat and prayer.
You don’t want the people watching online to feel like they are simply viewing another piece of video content. Have a team in place to moderate the live chat, connect with people, and offer prayer. When people are engaging with those watching the live stream, they will feel more connected.
4. Start the Stream early.
You’ll want to begin your live stream services a little early. This will allow people time to get on the platform they’re planning on viewing it from. It’s a little like congregants getting to church early; you don’t want to turn them away because you don’t have a welcoming space. Include a live countdown or a live view of the sanctuary. Be sure to have your chat moderators welcoming people beforehand as well.
5. Promote the live streaming service.
Whatever you’re doing for your live stream services, be sure to let people know about it all ahead of time. You’ll have more people attend online if more people are aware. Especially for holiday services, you’ll want the word to get out!
6. Stream on social media.
Aside from making your livestream available on your church website, stream it to your church’s social media platforms to reach your existing audience. Some people might not remember to watch from your website, but if they’re already scrolling social media, they can tune in right there.
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