With many Churches worshiping online these days, it may feel just like being there. However, there are some things to consider here:

• Is the service live or pre-recorded? Pre-recording allows for the technical staff to edit the worship segments together, but the seams may show. Broadcasting the service live over the internet is more life-like, but minor errors and glitches will be seen by everyone
• If pre-recorded, then is the setting consistent? If you show the organist playing the anthem, is it in daylight or darkness? If the rest of the worship service is in daylight, then it will look odd if the anthem is suddenly shown in darkness. The windows may be covered, but some ambient light gets in. Make sure that the setting is consistent, so that worshipers feel like they are there for one service.

Worshiping online will likely be something the Church wants to continue long after the pandemic is over. It has some great advantages. People can join you in worship from the hospital or nursing home. They can worship even though they are far away from home on a trip. Then can worship when they’re sick. The Church needs to continue to support this as an outreach to the community.