Sobo: Striking a Balance Between Technology, Human Authenticity, and the Church 

Pastor Lanre Sobo is the pastor-in-charge of Glory House Colleyville, TX, a parish of the Redeemed Christian Church of God. He is also the continental administrator for RCCG The Americas Continent -1, managing the parishes in North America, Central America, and the Caribbean.

He has a degree and a master’s in business administration (MBA) with a specialisation in information technology. His IT management career has spanned over two and half decades, and he has had leadership roles in Fortune 500 companies. Excerpts:

How has technology changed how churches communicate with their congregations compared to traditional methods?

In the past, churches communicated with their congregations through physical materials like fliers and bulletins. Nowadays, technology has revolutionised this process, enabling churches to engage with members around the clock. They use web platforms, mobile apps like MailChimp and Constant Contact, and multimedia tools to create a dynamic communication experience. Digital weekly news production, akin to professional networks like Arise News, CNN, and Fox News, has become commonplace, offering congregants an interactive and immersive way to stay connected. 

These advancements not only enhance communication but also foster a stronger sense of community within religious organisations. By embracing modern media standards, churches ensure that their message reaches members effectively and keeps them engaged. This transformation highlights the crucial role technology plays in facilitating meaningful connections and information dissemination within the context of faith-based communities.

How has technology impacted the church today, both in terms of its enhancements and potential hindrances?

When discussing the advantages of technology, two key aspects stand out. Firstly, there is the aspect of accessibility. Technology has effectively created a global village, significantly altering how churches spread the gospel. Consider this: I can now preach and engage with an audience in Africa from my desk in North America within minutes through a Zoom conference setup. In the past, such outreach would have required a plane ticket, days of travel, and substantial expenses.

Secondly, technology enhances effectiveness. The post-pandemic era has solidified the concept of the hybrid church, integrating social media for member engagement and robust administrative systems for sustainable onsite and online presence. Digital giving is on the rise in many churches, and staff members have access to web tools that facilitate efficient church management both onsite and remotely.

We learnt a lot from COVID-19, particularly that social distance didn’t limit the technologically inclined church.

However, despite these benefits, there’s a concerning trend of complacency among some parishioners who identify as “online churchgoers,” leading to a decline in physical attendance. It is crucial to remember that technology cannot fully replace the human connection emphasised in Hebrews 10:25, which encourages believers not to forsake gathering together but to encourage and support one another, especially as times become more challenging.

How do you see advancements in virtual reality and augmented reality shaping the future of religious experiences and worship services?

We must see the world through the lens of the Holy Scriptures, and that must be our emphasis. Don’t get me wrong. If I need a digital image on the LED screen that will drive home my sermon and give a great worship experience, I will use it. While embracing technology can enhance worship experiences, it’s vital for the church to maintain the authenticity of the gospel. Virtual reality and augmented reality can create immersive environments that seem real but aren’t grounded in truth.

Our perspective should always align with the teachings of the scriptures. Utilising digital tools to supplement sermons is acceptable, but we must avoid manipulating emotions artificially. True transformation comes from conviction by the spirit, not from manufactured experiences. I caution against using technology to create false hope or sensationalism, as it detracts from the genuine purpose of religious and worship experiences, which is to foster deep, meaningful connections with God and each other.

What are the ethical considerations that churches should keep in mind when using data analytics and personalisation in their outreach efforts?

The inclusion of data analytics in today’s churches represents significant progress for these organisations. Churches now understand the importance of data and how it continues to shape our modern world.

It falls upon church leadership to establish ethical standards for data gathering and analysis, regardless of the intended objectives. Ethical considerations in church data analytics involve addressing issues such as obtaining data consent, avoiding discrimination and bias, ensuring privacy and confidentiality, and preventing data misuse. By adhering to these principles, churches can carry out mission assignments with transparency, avoiding misrepresentation and potential negative outcomes while striving for positive impacts.

How can churches navigate the balance between embracing technological innovations and maintaining traditional aspects of worship and spirituality?

The incorporation of technology in churches can enhance but not replace spirituality. While technology has reshaped religious practices and perspectives, spirituality remains a deeply personal experience that transcends digital mediums. Church leaders must strike a balance between technological advancements and preserving the profound spiritual essence. During the 2019 pandemic, technology-enabled continued outreach despite challenges, a stark contrast to the limitations faced in the 1918 pandemic. However, it is crucial to acknowledge the distinction between attending a service online and being physically present in a live gathering. 

An orthodox priest during the COVID-19 pandemic aptly captured this sentiment, highlighting that experiencing spirituality firsthand in a communal setting cannot be replicated digitally. He emphasised that ‘touching fire is not the same as watching fire’, underscoring the unique and irreplaceable nature of genuine spiritual connection and fellowship, irrespective of technological innovations. The integration of technology should complement rather than overshadow spirituality, emphasising the importance of maintaining authentic spiritual experiences alongside technological advancements in modern churches.

What cybersecurity measures should churches prioritise to protect sensitive information and ensure a secure online environment for their members?

Churches have increasingly become targets for online fraud, with vulnerability varying across different congregations. Reports from fcc.org indicate that digital data theft has surpassed physical theft as the most reported fraud. The growing digital presence of churches, including online giving platforms and mobile apps, contributes to this heightened risk.

To combat these threats, churches must prioritise cybersecurity measures to protect their members’ data, donors, and affiliates. Implementing robust cybersecurity policies and seeking professional assistance are essential steps in creating a secure online environment. Familiar tools such as firewall protection, password authentication, secure networks, and access cards are crucial in safeguarding church assets and member devices connected to the internet.

I pastor a church which manages over thirty online-connected assets and provides secure internet access to members using their devices. This proactive approach ensures that our congregation’s digital interactions remain protected and secure.

 How has technology, such as live streaming services or online communities, expanded the reach of religious organisations to connect with the unchurched and individuals seeking spiritual guidance?

The influence of technology has significantly expanded the global reach of churches, as exemplified by the transformation of a traditional church X located in city Y. Originally, with a local membership of 50, church X embraced livestream technology during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to exponential growth. Thousands now connect to their livestream worship services, with weekly traffic on their web platform surging due to the on-demand option. Moreover, the church’s local membership has swelled as online attendees transitioned to onsite membership.

This technological shift has not only amplified the church’s message within its walls but has also extended its impact beyond physical boundaries. Church X now receives increased website traffic, including prayer requests and inquiries about faith. As a pastor, witnessing firsthand the transition of online viewers to in-person attendees brings immense joy. One individual’s testimony of watching online for a year before committing to in-person attendance underscores the power of technology in facilitating deeper connections and fostering full-scale membership growth.

What emerging technologies or trends do you believe will have the most significant impact on reaching souls who are disconnected from traditional religious institutions?

Acknowledging the truth is crucial; although technology facilitates spiritual connections, genuine human interactions remain indispensable. Finding a balance between innovation and human authenticity is vital in engaging souls seeking meaning and connection in our digital era.

Various digital platforms such as YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, podcasts, livestreams, and live TV create avenues for spiritual discussions, worship, prayer groups, and community building. These platforms, along with online forums and religious event livestreams, enable global connections irrespective of physical distance. 

Manyhave shared testimonies of salvation or healing through digital platforms. Emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, virtual reality, and augmented reality hold potential to enhance religious experiences and reach disconnected individuals. However, ethical considerations are paramount to maintain authenticity and empathy in these interactions. Ultimately, people’s innate desire for human connection amid challenges surpasses the benefits technology offers.