Pastor’s Column in The Informer (FBC’s Newsletter) – published June 2007
This week, I’ve been reading a book called The Blogging Church: Sharing the Story of Your Church Through Blogs. Now, if you’ve never heard of the word “blog,” let me assure you that it is not some contagious disease. A “blog” is a short-hand word for “web log.” A web log or “blog” is an on-line journal where you post your thoughts and reflections on a web site and anyone in the world with an internet connection and a web browser can read it and comment on it. “Blogging” is becoming increasingly popular, not just among the young, but with people of all ages and backgrounds. Now, you might ask, why would a church want to get into something like this? Is this just the latest fad toy for a pastor with too much time on his hands? Well, I would like to think that this is not the case. For I have come to believe that blogging can be a solution to a pressing problem in the church.
What is the problem? The problem is communication. I’ve heard from many folks, especially those who are new to the church and the community, stating that there is not one place where they can get up-to-date information and the latest communication regarding church programs, Sunday School classes, and specific ministry opportunities. I’ve heard from others telling me that they would like to be more aware of what we are doing in the area of missions and ministry in our community. A blog may help in disseminating information about the church both to its members and to potential guests. But much more than that, blogging at its best is simply on-line hospitality. It is opening a virtual door into our church, inviting people inside and sharing stories. It may be a window into the heart of our faith community as people see and read about us celebrating victories, carrying one another’s burdens, sharing stories of life change, asking questions of life and faith. It may be a way to broadcast a church’s vision, a way to connect with former members, a way to share ideas and best practices with other churches and Christian leaders. It may even be a way to give honest feedback to ministers who are often too isolated and insulated from the real world! Theologically, a blog may allow a Baptist church to witness to a cherished Baptist belief—the priesthood of all believers—in a new day and a new age.
With that in mind, I’ve recently set up a blog for Farmville Baptist Church. [If you're reading this, you've found it!] There you will find late breaking news, updates, pictures and “behind the scenes” reflections. If you are reading this article, you’ve already found our blog! Click on the “Home” tab at the top of this web page and read the posts. Leave a comment on it to let me know what you think!
Yours in Christ, Michael
