It is said that the new generation of worshipers learns not by words, but instead images. So the question for pastors becomes how to deliver a sermon that engages this tech savvy culture while still delivering the good news of the Gospel. There are many good articles for and against using technologies, such as Powerpoint and videos, during the preaching event. I would say both sides of the argument bring forth some very good and important points.
The bottom line is that things in our culture are changing. By the time I am a pastor, the majority of my congregation will have been at least exposed to the use of the newest technological advances, and in large part, used to getting much of their daily information in the form of images. So how as a preacher do you find the balance between still delivering each week to the congregation the fresh bread of Gospel while engaging your congregants in a way that will hold their attention?
I agree with the use of images and music as a way to bring the main points of a sermon to a crescendo, so to speak. I don't however see myself giving a glorified "self-help" seminar each week, with me simply flipping through slides on Powerpoint. In an "anti-Powerpoint" article by Philip Quanbeck, he points out the danger of delivering a slideshow, using the "bells and whistles" of Powerpoint to engage the audience. I would have to say I agree with his point and in large part using this approach detracts from the richness of the proclamation.
So how can we be sure we are speaking this "new language" that our congregations are speaking? And how do we still ensure that we're using technology in a way that does not detract from our message? I think the best way would be to go to the congregation, to try different things, but to still make sure of one thing: each week in preparation for your proclamation you are prayerfully considering the text, the circumstances of the congregation you are speaking to and reflecting on how the Holy Spirit is moving you to prepare the sermon.
I think technology is an amazing thing that makes life easier and interesting. I also believe that the use of technology can enhance a sermons message, as long as the preacher does not allow the ease technology adds to preparation/presentation to detract from the spiritual preparation it should involve.
So, what are your thoughts? How do you see technology changing the way we interact with your congregations? And for parishioners...how would you feel about technology being incorporated into your pastor's sermon each week?
The thoughts of an eager seminarian at the Lutheran Theological Seminary at Gettysburg.
Technology and multimedia should serve the text-- and the challenge for me will be keeping that in mind as I prepare to preach. You raise a very important point in saying that our use of technology should also serve the people. Looking back on my internship year, I would rely heavily on the guidance of the worship committee and council for critical feedback and suggestions on how effectively my use of technology is speaking the truth of God's Word in ways that are clear and meaningful to them. Multimedia enhancements to proclamation are not one-size-fits-all.
ReplyDeleteI think you captured things well. Technology can enhance the preaching experience, but if we try to introduce it too quickly then the risk of alienating folks becomes high. The medium cannot become confused with the message.
ReplyDeleteCool Blogs, I love your perspectives. Carol
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