Preaching Goes Viral

The Pandemic and American Orthodox Christian Parishes

[don't use] Virtual communal gatherings

Between early April and early May, the percentage of parishes that began live‐streaming their services after the pandemic outbreak increased from 47% to 64%. A number of clergy indicated that they are using Zoom or other videoconferencing software for offering religious services to parishioners instead of or in addition to live‐streaming. These priests felt that videoconferencing creates a more engaging experience than simply watching online services. Nearly two‐thirds (64%) of clergy in the parishes with live‐streamed services measure their online attendance. However, fewer than half among them attempt to track whether their viewers have “attended” the entire service.

2022-12-16

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Alexei Krindatch