8 Media/Tech Issues Churches Should Address

Earlier this week we discussed new research from the Barna Group that shows many parents and teens would like more guidance from their churches on media and technology issues.

So, what are the biggest media/tech issues churches should be teaching/training on?

Here are 8 that come to mind for me:

1. Internet filtering/monitoring – How to set up software to block porn, violence, and hate sites from being displayed on computers in one’s home. Plus logging/reviewing websites being visited.

2. Protecting teens on social media – Discussing issues and providing training about the dangers of social media – stalkers, sharing inappropriate content, etc.

3. Phones & texting – Training for parents & teens, Internet filtering for phones

4. Protecting your marriage from online dangers – Internet filtering, accountability, appropriate use of social media for adults.

5. Media usage – How much TV/Internet is too much? Time management tools. Addressing Internet/gaming addictions.

6. Being fully present – Family relationships are important, but often families eat dinner in front of the TV, conversations are interrupted by phone calls and texting. Eliminating distractions and being fully engaged in family moments is a big deal.

7. Being salt and light online – The Internet isn’t all bad. It’s also a great opportunity to share your faith and show God’s love with people you connect with online.

8. People and churches working online together – Your church probably has a website and may be using Facebook, Twitter, and blogs as well. Talk about what the church is doing online and how individuals can connect with the church and amplify what the church is doing.

What do you think? Do you think churches ought to address these 8 issues? What did I miss? What other issues do you think churches should address?

Read the original post and join the discussion at 8 Media/Tech Issues Churches Should Address