“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, ²⁵ not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another…”

At this time, it is really easy to give up meeting together. At a time where “social distancing” is becoming our default setting, I would argue it is more important to stay connected than ever. I personally think we are at a crossroad as Christians. Conform to the pattern of the world or be the church – even when we can’t gather at the church.

The good news is technology is out there that can help us stay connected. Whether you are tech savvy and want to use Facebook Messenger or Zoom; or are tech challenged and just want to get everyone together for a conference call – there is a tool out there for you.

The Spiritual Development Team has put together detailed description on how you can use tools to meet together during this time.

TECHNOLOGY 

• FACEBOOK MESSENGER GROUPS
• Requirements: Accessible via web browser on computer. If you don’t have a Facebook account you’ll need to create a Facebook account or download the app to your phone and use phone number.
• How To Use:
• Open Facebook messenger on web browser or mobile app
• Login (with Facebook account or phone number)
• Click “New Message” button to add Facebook friends to group chat (see image below)
• After adding contacts, click the “Video Call” button to start video chat. (see image below)
• Watch 2 minute tutorial.
  

• ZOOM
• Requirements: The Host of the meeting will need an account Login from the church. The other participants will need to download the software, but they do not need an account to join the meeting. (See below for download)
• How To Use:
• The host needs to open Zoom in a web browser or mobile app (apple device, android device, chrome web browser extension)
• Login
• Click “Host a meeting with video on”
• Click “Invite participations”
• Select how you’d like to send an invite:
• Default Email, Gmail, Yahoo to send email invite
• or “copy URL”, “Copy Invitation” to copy a link and send it via a text message, email, Facebook message, etc.
• Watch tutorial videos in Zoom video library.
  
  

• GOOGLE HANGOUTS
• Requirements: All participants google account for all participants. (can sign up for one HERE). Phone-in option not available unless you have a business account.
• How to use:
• Open Google Hangouts in web browser or mobile app (apple device , android device, chrome web browser extension)
• Login
• Click “Video Call” button
• Click “Invite People” and type in their email address (If they don’t have a google account it will send them an invite to setup an account)
• You can also schedule a meeting on your google calendar and send an invite to join you at a specific time, including a link to your online meeting. (See Instructions)
• Watch 6 minute youtube tutorial.
  
  

• FREECONFERENCECALL.COM
• If your group is not as tech savvy or doesn’t have the technology to do a video chat, this website offers a free conference call option to phone in. It will be a long-distance number most likely.
• How to use:
• Sign up for an account HERE
• Share the dial-in number and access code with your group.

BEST PRACTICES/ONLINE ETIQUETTE

1. Recommend group members to download meeting software prior to meeting.
2. Make sure your face has sufficient lighting.
   • Lighting works best in front of your face, not behind.
3. Make sure your face is centered in the video camera.
4. Select the quietest room/location you can find.
5. Mute your computer unless you’re talking.
   • If everyone’s microphone is turned on at the same time, the sound quality can be an issue and it can be hard to hear the person who is talking.

FORMAT/SCHEDULE

• Practice Session/First Meeting (30 minutes)
• It can be helpful to have a 30-minute practice session together or take the first half of your first online group get everyone acquainted with how an online group will work.
• Review online etiquette/best practices (listed above).

• Typical Meeting (60-75 minutes)
• Connect - 15-20 minutes
• Welcome people as they login (people tend to arrive late online, just like in-person groups). Begin ice breaker.
• Discuss - 30-40 minutes
• Discuss sermon discussion questions, leaving plenty of time for application questions.
• Wrap Up - 15 minutes
• Ask for any prayer requests and Pray.

Further questions, Contact Me Here? I’m glad to help!

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