USA Today has an interesting article discussing the growing use of media and technology by the church. Much of it can be summed up with the following excerpt:

Critics rue the potential of bells and Whistler-like video images to distract from the deeper meaning of church. But as the techno-worship trend matures, users say it’s serving a profound purpose: turning sideline sitters into active church participants, cultivating compassion, and making it easier for the taciturn to tell inspiring stories.

The article also quotes some statistics from The Barna Group’s September 2005 report on churches using technology. Noteworthy statistics from that report include:

• 62% of Protestant churches presently use a large-screen projection system in their communications
• 62% of churches incorporate live drama into worship services
• 61% of Protestant churches integrate video content into their worship services
• 57% of Protestant churches now have a website.
• 56% of churches now rely on email blasts for reaching their church members
• 12% of churches offer EFT (Electronic Funds Transfer) as a means of donating money to the church

USA Today’s article debates whether this growing use of technology in churches is good or bad. The answer is both. If your church uses technology for technology’s sake, it is a bad decision that will most likely distract people from your message. However, if your church uses technology as a means to enhance the message or to attract or reach more people, than it is a good use of technology.

One thing is certain - technology is becoming an essential part in reaching people with the gospel today. Your church better learn how to use it in a good way.