Blogs? !

In 2004, Merriam-Webster's [Dictionary] chose "blog" as its Word of the Year. ("Podcasting" was chosen by the New Oxford American Dictionary in 2005.)

But what does this have to do with ministry?

"Blogging is a revolution in communication, community, and authentic conversation; a revolution that churches cannot afford to ignore." (from the Preface of The Blogging Church, p. xiv by Brian Bailey with Terry Storch, Leadership Network / Jossey Bass, 2007)

Blogging is a one to many form of communication at its minimum and a one to many and many to one at its best.

Blogs should not be the same as most web sites - news, announcements, billboards. That would be sapping the potential from this form of communication. Blogs need to be included in the tool box that includes email, church newsletters (mailed and online), web sites, direct mail, etc. (However, because of their low cost and ease of use, some churches use the blogging technology to post web sites.)

Another excerpt from The Blogging Church:

"Blogs are the new way to tell stories...These stories don't exist in a vacuum; they are part of a larger conversation...Is the story of your church being told? Is your church part of the conversation?...There is a new passion for authentic communication. People want to be part of an open and honest conversation...People are seeking out individuals and organizations that want to be part of this new conversation. They are looking for those who are willing to open the door and let others inside."

The author acknowledges that face to face conversation is the best, but short of that blogging has much to offer to invite to and carry on such conversations.

Bloggers at their best write to reflect on the happenings - past and future - in such a way as to invite their readers into a reflective conversation that continues through posting remarks or emailing the blogger.

What technology does a blogger need?

How can a pastor and/or church best use this communication tool?

Here are 3 to start with: