One thing Ministry leaders around Uganda may be wondering is, does an online church actually grow the physical church?
A new extensive study titled “State of the Online Church,” has revealed that 59% of churches have seen physical growth since launching their online ministry.
This study utilizes data from a 2018 survey Vanderbloemen and Jay Kranda administered to a largest network of online and digital church leaders. 176 participated, making it the most extensive online church study to date.
“Through this data and in our work with thousands of churches, we’ve seen a trend emerge that indicates the online church brings tangible value to the growth of churches,” the report said.
Adding: “The online church is playing a pivotal role in expanding the Kingdom; thus, the unique role of the Online Pastor is vital.”
Seventy-five percent of digital church leaders reported that people attended online services first then showed up in person.
Many online attendees were found to be living within driving distance of the church, with 42 percent reporting such attendance.
Overall, 58 percent said they agree that online ministry is helpful to their church. Thirty-eight percent saw an increase in giving since launching their online ministry. Meanwhile, around 15 percent said they are unsure of the impact.
Only 16 percent of the churches surveyed had a full-time online ministry leader. The dominant broadcast method among these churches is online streaming, and over half have the full service on demand.
The study stressed that digital churches will never replace local churches but will come alongside and support them. “The local church isn’t going anywhere. Online streaming will not stop the need for local churches all around the world.”
