In this episode of the Church Solutions Podcast, hosts Phil Thompson and Steve Lacy take a deep dive into the future of online church. With streaming here to stay, they explore emerging trends, surprising stats, and the critical need to bridge the gap between passive viewership and active spiritual participation.
Online Church Isn’t Going Away—But It Is Evolving
Online church has become a mainstay in ministry since the pandemic, but the way people engage with it is shifting. Initially a lifeline during lockdowns, streaming has now become a convenient option rather than a necessity. While this offers flexibility, it also presents a new challenge for churches: how to turn passive viewers into active participants.
A recent study cited in the podcast revealed:
- 74% of online church attendees cite convenience as their primary reason for watching.
- Only 25% of virtual attendees consider themselves active participants.
- While 65% of in-person worshippers feel strong bonds with others, only 28% of online viewers feel the same.
These numbers underscore a fundamental issue—the engagement gap. People may be watching, but they’re not always connecting.
Closing the Gap: What Churches Can Do
Phil and Steve share practical ideas and tools to increase engagement online:
1. Offer More Than Just a Video Stream
If your church is only offering a one-way video feed, you’re missing an opportunity to connect. Instead, consider using platforms (like StreamingChurch.tv) that include interactive features like chat, prayer requests, polls, and integrated giving.
2. Designate a Web Host
A live chat host can greet attendees, answer questions, and share links during the service. This personal interaction helps viewers feel seen and valued.
3. Use Breakaways and Commentary
Taking a cue from sports broadcasts, Phil shares how his church added pre-service and in-between-segment video segments specifically for online viewers. These quick transitions allowed the church to deliver targeted announcements and build community, even from afar.
4. Experiment with Midweek Content
Don’t limit your video ministry to Sundays. Consider live video podcasts or topic-driven videos during the week. Addressing real-life issues—like relationships, mental health, or finances—can attract new viewers who are seeking answers, not just sermons.
Think Like a Streamer: Lessons from the Gaming World
Steve shares insights from his son, a professional gaming streamer with sky-high audience engagement. The key? Interactive tools and consistent hosting. Whether it’s chat-driven commentary, polls, or humorous widgets, creating an engaging environment encourages return visits and deeper connections.
Churches can borrow this playbook—no, you don’t need to gamify your worship—but finding ways for people to respond, react, and participate makes the experience more personal and impactful.
Small Steps, Big Results
You don’t have to overhaul your entire service. Start small:
- Use chat greetings and conversation starters.
- Share relevant scripture or song info during worship.
- Highlight blog posts or sermon clips during the week.
- Offer online small groups using Zoom or Google Meet.
Even if viewers don’t immediately respond, they notice. And over time, small interactions build trust and community.
Join the Conversation: Upcoming Webinar
If you’re looking to better understand your church’s digital engagement, don’t miss the upcoming free webinar hosted by StreamingChurch.tv:
📅 Stream Smarter: Your Streaming Analytics Are Telling a Story That Could Be Your Next Breakthrough
🗓️ Tuesday, July 22, 2025
🕛 12:00 PM Eastern Time
🎥 Sign up here
This 30–45 minute session will explore how churches can leverage data and analytics to grow their ministry and boost engagement. Live Q&A will follow, and all registrants receive a recording—even if you can’t attend live.
Final Thoughts:
The future of church is both in-person and online. Digital ministry isn’t just a temporary trend—it’s a powerful opportunity to reach more people than ever before. But convenience alone won’t build spiritual depth. Engagement is key.
With intentionality, the right tools, and a bit of creativity, your church can turn online viewers into active participants and thriving members of your faith community.