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Before yesterdayPeter Bowden Updates

Invitation: Video Message Academy 2024

19 December 2023 at 15:51

 

Friends, 2024 is coming fast!  Interested in growing your congregation in the New Year? If you are, consider joining us for Video Message Academy for Congregations 2024!

This just might be the most important cycle of Video Message Academy for Congregations ever. Yeah, I know I sound like the host of the Bachelor.

"This is the most dramatic season ever!!!" they say every single season...

Well, I feel like this is one of the most pivotal seasons in the life of many of our congregations. What about your ministry? Do you need help?

Many of you need to learn and implement new strategies if you are going to adapt to today's world, be of service, and thrive.  This training can help.

🙌 You'll learn skills and strategies to help you lead and grow congregations in today's video dominated world.

This video shares the latest program highlights.

This 2024 New Year cycle features:

  • The full on-demand video ministry strategy training. The approaches I share are helping congregations of all sizes get results!
  • A 2-hour live training January 9th via Zoom with full strategy overview, discussion, and Q&A.
  • Program Facebook Group with six-weeks of facilitation guiding you through the program. Running Jan 1 through Feb 15.
  • Ask me questions on every post in the training as well as in our Facebook group.
  • Handouts to support implementation.
  • Video content outlines for my top recommended videos.
  • More bonuses in the works :-)

Those are the highlights. It is going to be amazing! I hope you'll join us.

Registration is open with an early bird discount through December 31st:
http://www.videomessageacademy.com

Questions
If you have questions about the program, you may contact me here.

Existing program members
You'll have full access to the training and Facebook group. If you know someone who would appreciate this training, please forward this to them.

Go team!
Peter

The Coming Artificial Intelligence (AI) Meaning Crisis

14 November 2023 at 00:00

An AI driven meaning crisis is looming.  Noticing the accelerating rate of AI advancement, recently I started doing more intentional study. What I learned and what I'm expecting to unfold in the very near future has me changing my priorities, projects, and how I work with congregations and community organizations.

Join me, Peter Bowden, on November 14, 2023, at 12:30 PM EST for a live stream strategy session preparing for the coming A.I. meaning crisis for community clergy and congregations (sessions for others to follow). With AI evolving at an exponential rate, artificial general intelligence (AGI) is coming fast. What happens when AI can do any job a human with a computer can do?

That's not sci-fi, that's what companies are working on today. As these systems are able to perform the tasks previously preformed by humans, a ‘meaning crisis’ looms, challenging our notions of value and identity.

Live Stream Replay:

Listen via audio podcast: The Peter Bowden Show

In this session, I'm going to share highlights from my accidental AI "mini-sabbatical" and how I think clergy and congregations should start responding. Friends, those of us with associated expertise -- bringing people together and facilitating conversations on meaning and purpose -- need to take the lead on hosting community conversations on the issues of our time.

This, of course, includes what it means to be human in the age of AI. Specifically, I am re-arranging my schedule, projects, and priorities to fast track launching an open-source decentralized community group model any person, group, or institution can use to host conversations along with session plans and an invitation for us all - humanity - to crowdsource the development of group sessions.

THANK YOU, MO GAWDAT!
Special thanks to Mo Gawdat. I listened to his book "Scary Smart" on the way to lead a Clergy Summit last week. It is an amazing contribution to the this conversation and orientation to AI, AI ethics, AI emotions, and how we might be better parents as we raise these AI beings.

I highly recommend all of human colleagues read it as soon as possible. Gawdat's book is my favorite so far. If you like audio books or have trouble engaging with hard topics, get the audio version. He has a wonderful voice -- You said it,  Mo.

Read the book SCARY SMART:
https://www.mogawdat.com/scary-smart


RECOMMENDED INTERVIEWS
Watch Mo Gawdat conversation with Steven Bartlett on  @TheDiaryOfACEO  EMERGENCY EPISODE: Ex-Google Officer Finally Speaks Out On The Dangers Of AI! - Mo Gawdat | E252 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bk-nQ7HF6k4

Watch Mo Gawdat conversation with Tom Bilyeu on Impact Theory
MEGATHREAT: Why AI Is So Dangerous & How It Could Destroy Humanity | Mo Gawdat https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=itY6VWpdECc

Holiday Outreach Strategy with Video Example Scripts

12 December 2023 at 17:49

To inspire participation in congregational life this holiday season and New Year,  go beyond announcements!  People need more help choosing to participate.

I recommend using video to show in people's live and to be their guide and mentor BEFORE they visit or choose to re-engage.  Before.  You need to show up for them first. FIRST.  If you're waiting for people to show up in your congregation to minister to them, time for a critical strategy update!

Here's how you can use a simple video message and optional ad campaign to help newcomers and members alike choose connection, community and meaning this season.

I explain how in today's live stream:

 

Listen via audio podcast: The Peter Bowden Show

Example scripts

In this video I use the new ethical AI system I'm developing to generate some sample scripts.  These are to get you thinking!  You may access them using the link below.  

Google Doc with Example Scripts and Outlines
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1CLr4JyFELPR6qycQ1shoSW_y3Ji9b5lKprdg-QzdYo4/edit?usp=sharing

Live Stream Highlights

 

Welcome! Back from AI Sabbatical

Hello friends, it's Peter Bowden. I'm glad to see you. I'm back from my artificial intelligence sabbatical, where I delved deep into ethical issues and technology. Now, I'm here to help you get ready for the holidays with specific outreach strategies you can use right now.

Video Strategy Training Announcement

I'm excited to announce the opening of enrollment for the new year cycle of my video strategy training. This program is designed to help you engage with newcomers, members, and your community using video effectively.

Video Dominates Engagement

The internet has shifted significantly towards video. If you're not using video, you're missing a crucial element of online engagement. Video helps in decision-making, showcases leadership online, and connects all the pieces of your digital strategy.

Holiday Outreach Strategies

As we approach the holidays, I recommend recording a simple video message to invite newcomers and existing members to your holiday services. This is not just about inviting them to an event, but encouraging them to think about participation beyond the holiday season.

The Heart of Your Video Message

Imagine using your webcam or smartphone to record a video. It doesn't need high production value; what matters is authenticity. As a leader, convey why it's important to gather for the holidays and beyond.

AI-Generated Script for Congregations

I'll also share an AI-generated script to help congregations develop tools and systems for using AI ethically. This script can be a starting point for creating engaging social media content to combat social isolation and model ethical AI systems.

Boosting Engagement Through Video

For the holidays, consider the impact of sharing a meaningful video invitation on your Facebook page. Boost it to reach not only your current audience but also those who've interacted with your page before. Use Facebook Ad Campaigns to expand your reach to a lookalike audience, bringing your message to a wider community.

Utilizing AI for Script Generation

This is where AI comes in handy. I've been working on customizing a system to generate scripts for congregational outreach. The aim is to use AI for good, to combat social isolation, and to advance the development of ethical AI systems. I'll be sharing more of this as we progress.

Preparing for Post-Holiday Engagement

It's crucial to plan for post-holiday engagement. Ensure your website and social media reflect upcoming events and opportunities for newcomers right after the New Year. This helps in retaining the interest of those who visit your holiday services.

Sample Script: Warm Holiday Invitation

Let’s take a look at a sample script. It's a warm holiday invitation by a minister, inviting the community to join in holiday celebrations and emphasizing the inclusivity of the congregation. Remember, it’s easier to edit an existing script than to start from scratch.

Importance of Clear Newcomer Instructions

We must be crystal clear about the best ways for newcomers to get involved. Whether it's a welcome table, newcomer gatherings, or small group programs, explicitly instructing newcomers on how to engage is key to successful integration into the community.

Refining the AI-Generated Script

I'm working on refining the AI-generated script to make it more precise and strategic. The goal is to clearly communicate the value and meaning of holiday gatherings and what your congregation offers in the new year.

Emphasizing Clear Communication

Communication needs to be clear and appealing. Videos allow you to express emotions and connect with your audience more effectively than written text alone. It's about helping people see the alignment between their life goals and what your congregation offers.

The Role of Video in Digital Ministry

In today’s digital world, leaders need to embrace video to connect with their audience effectively. Videos are essential for helping people decide to get involved with your congregation. It's not enough to just post worship services; you need to actively engage with your community online.

Embracing Digital Tools for Connection

Digital ministry is more than just online presence; it's about being an effective leader in the digital age. This includes showing up as passionate, helpful, and inspiring leaders in people's digital lives.

Conclusion and Future Plans

As we wrap up, I'd like to highlight the potential of AI in enhancing our congregational outreach. I'm working on ways to utilize AI with intention, purpose, and integrity. Keep an eye on the video description for a link to a Google document containing all this valuable content.

Sharing the Refined Script

In the shared Google document, you'll find refined scripts with effective messaging for holiday invitations. These scripts are designed to convey warmth and a sense of community, inviting people to not just attend holiday events but to also consider deeper engagement with your congregation.

Using Video to Be a Guide

Video plays a crucial role in today's digital ministry. It's a powerful tool for connecting with people and helping them decide to get involved in congregational life. We need to show up online as real, passionate human beings, actively inviting people into our community. By using these tools effectively, we can foster deep connections and community involvement.

Competing for Attention 

Remember, our congregations are competing for attention with numerous online influencers and brands. It's crucial for our leaders to be present, engaging, and authentic online. This presence helps in reaching out to those seeking community and meaning.

Priming People for New Year Engagement

In your holiday communications, prioritize vision casting for the future beyond the  holidays -- New Year engagement!   For this to work, plan events and gatherings for after the New Year, making sure they are visible on your website and social media.  This helps in maintaining the momentum and interest generated during the holidays.

We Have the Tools!

We have the tools to reach people online, to show up, to lead, coach, mentor and be of service.  If you are a leader wanting to help your congregation thrive, I look forward to assisting you on this journey.  Make sure you are subscribed to my email newsletter for congregations and consider enrolling in Video Message Academy for Congregations.

Go team!
Peter  

AI Process: After doing this live stream, I generate captions using Adobe Premiere. I then pasted the caption and time code from  theSRT file into a new chat with my custom AI. I had it generate YouTube chapters and timecode which I then added to the YouTube video with a few title edits. That took 5 minutes instead of 30 minutes. Chapters help video engagement. I then had work on an easy to scan written version of highlights.

Training Update
I'm about to re-open enrollment in Video Ministry Academy for Congregations, my comprehensive video ministry strategy training for clergy, staff, and volunteer leaders.  If you aren't on my email list yet, you may sign up to be notified and receive all the details as soon as enrollment opens later this week. Visit https://www.videomessageacademy.com.  

 

Rebuilding Programs in Congregations from Scratch!

17 August 2023 at 15:04

Do you need to relaunch, rebuild or start a new program this fall?    

In this live strategy session, I share tips and strategies for rebuilding programs especially when you are starting over from scratch.

How do you gather people and get them excited when you have NOTHING??!!   

How do you avoid having people see they are the only ______ (young adult, young family, etc...) and run for the door? 

How do you communicate honestly about having nothing while gathering people to form a new amazing ministry, program, or community? 

I've worked across areas of congregational life and have started many programs over the years including programs for children, youth, young adults, and adult small group programs.

This session shares successful approaches plus some of the latest from my hands-on work with congregations.

Listen via my podcast.

Budget Deficits? Communication Tips for Congregations

4 May 2023 at 17:00

I know things are challenging but I want you to pause and ask yourself an important questions.  Are you vision-casting or manifesting a congregational death spiral? If you have a budget problen, gloom and doom talk is going to make it worse!  Here's a live stream on this topic followed by a shorter 5 minute version.

 

Full 28 minute live stream:

 

Listen via my podcast.

I’ve been reviewing congregational fundraising communications. Many communicators are so caught up in their challenges, the congregation’s vision has been lost. In this session, how gloom and doom communication can undermine your fundraising capacity especially with newcomers and how you might approach it instead.

🚀 KEY TAKEAWAY:
The last few years have left most congregations with fewer members than before the pandemic. This is driving widespread budget deficits.

As leaders and communicators you get to choose how you frame the challenges you are facing. You can frame pandemic re-building challenges with a gloom and doom "gap" approach or a rocket "relaunching" vision, growth, and innovative approach. Which do you think is going to energize newcomers and your donors?

ROCKET LAUNCH!!! 💰

Again, the same goal. Same budget challenge. Two ways to frame and tackle it = 💀 🚀

🤩 You can change how you communicate and, in turn, how people respond with your very next email, video, sermon, or donor meeting.

We also have amazing digital tools that can help you reach new people in your community in record time! We have incredible digital tools. I'm teaching new and updated digital ministry approaches online and via team strategy sessions all the time. If you are not using these tools and strategies, time to upgrade your approach!

UPDATE:

5 Tips for Congregations Facing Budget Deficits (in 5 minutes)
After discussing this topic in a live stream I was asked to make a five minute version to share with leaders. Here it is!

 

How "Meet the Minister" videos support membership development

3 May 2023 at 17:17

Learn how "meet the minister" videos on congregational websites support the visitor research process and membership development.

Have you ever heard someone say they chose to visit the congregation after meeting the minister somewhere? This happens all the time. After getting to know the minister at a wedding, funeral, protest, or elsewhere in the community people feel comfortable visiting.

Today, we can help people get to know the minister on-demand when they land on your website, through social media, and if you choose, advertising. It is part of building a digital path into the life and heart of your congregation.

This session introduces strategies from my Video Message Academy for Congregations program. 



No visitors? A BIG mistake many small congregations make

2 December 2022 at 13:16

Does your congregation have very few or no visitors?  Talking with leadership teams in small congregations, I'm finding some are waiting for visitors to come BEFORE they establish or re-start their process for welcoming and connecting with visitors and COMMUNICATING what that visitor experience will be like. 

In this episode, I explain why we can't wait for the visitors to show up before we map out how we are going to welcome, greet, and connect with them AND to communicate "the plan" to potential visitors.

For many, to feel comfortable visiting, they need to know what to expect. 

What's it going to be like?  Where do I go?  How do I connect with people when I visit so I don't have to suffer through an awkward and painful experience?  Is it going to be okay?  Can I do this or should I just stay on the couch watching Netflix?  I have a lot of shows waiting for me... What's the plan?  

Watch Episode 23 // Subscribe on YouTube

 
 

Listen to Episode 23 // Subscribe to Audio Podcast
 

If you do not have many visitors and want more, I recommend the following:

1) Agree on a simple process
Set a clear process for how you will welcome, greet, and CONNECT with visitors when they show up.  This includes creating a facilitated space to connect when they visit.   I discuss options for making casual opportunities to connect after your weekly services in this episode.  

2) List the process on your website
When visitors land on your visitor page, they should be able to read about the process and RSVP to participate.

3) Share via social media
Every week, when you share what's happening in your congregation via social media, also include this visitor opportunity with a link to your visitor page with RSVP form.  

4) Share via email 
Every week, when you share what's happening in your congregation via email, also include this visitor opportunity with a link to your visitor page with RSVP form.

Video Helps!  Adding a video that welcomes and orients newcomers to your visitor page including a description of "the plan" for visiting can help them feel comfortable making the decision to do so.  I explain how to implement this strategy and as well as other video content for visitors in my online training program Video Message Academy for Congregations. 

 

Congregations versus the Algorithm!

27 October 2022 at 11:17

 

Social media platforms are changing how they determine what people see online!

Driven by TikTok's success, they are shifting from a "social graph" to an "interest graph."

What's that mean?

Instead of showing people content based on what they SELECTED they want to see -- like, follow, subscribe -- they are showing them MORE of what they are actively watching and engaging with!

These companies know what your members, friends, and potential newcomers are watching on their apps and websites. They have the data.

To get people to spend more time on their platforms and see more ads, social media algorithms are being re-designed to show people more of what is capturing and holding their attention.

If we aren't careful, this has the potential to SQUEEZE CONGREGATIONS OUT!

Where does that leave your congregation? 

In this episode, I explain the shift, what it means for you, and three communication priorities. 

Watch, listen, and read some key takeaway points below.

 Watch Episode 22 //  Subscribe on YouTube

Listen to Episode 22 // Listening Options

Highlights

These changes offer some HUGE opportunities for those interested in harnessing the power of the algorithms. It is actually getting easier to reach more people and grow an audience. Watch this segment.

Here are my top three communication priorities for congregations:

Priority #1: Email
But not just weekly long newsletters. We need to be writing emails crafted to be from your minister or other leaders to fellow human beings in a personal and relational way.
Watch this segment

Priority #2: Website Hub
We need to make websites our primary hub for information, getting involved, and connecting online.
Watch this segment

Priority #3: Video with a twist
Video is a powerful way to bring your leaders online, to connect, engage and inspire participation in congregational life. We need to be doing more with video, but I think it is prudent to be focusing more on publishing via YouTube. Then we can easily add videos to websites and include links in emails. So, video that we can deliver via our first two communication priorities.
Watch this segment

Ultimately, we need to prioritize and cultivate communication channels we control and can use to consistently engage with members, friends, and newcomers.   

Many social media platforms are evolving in ways that makes them less reliable for these purposes.

Time for an Announcement Makeover!

14 October 2022 at 15:57

In this episode, how to write announcements that get results!  Download my free Announcement Makeover worksheet discussed in this episode:

The average congregation is an announcement making machine!  However, many are not getting results.  There's a reason for this.  Today, people are bombarded by information online. THEIR need to rapidly identify which content is relevant to THEM changes how WE need to write announcements.  I’ll tell you how!

 Watch Episode 21 //  Subscribe on YouTube


Listen to Episode 21 // Listening Options

 

Three Ways to Start Growing Your Congregation

6 October 2022 at 16:45

Congregations across religious traditions are challenged, stressed, and worried about their future.

In this episode of The Peter Bowden Show I share the KEY to growing congregations today (in my experience) and three easy ways to start growing your congregation.

  • One is focused on connecting newcomers.
  • Second prioritizes congregation-wide community building during periodic services -- I'm talking during PRIME TIME, not an additional program people have to register for.
  • Last, making important changes to your small group program.

Sign up here to receive new episodes of the show and other content for congregational leaders delivered to your inbox.  This will allow you to forward specific episodes to other leaders based on the content.      

Watch Episode 20 //  Subscribe on YouTube

 

Listen to Episode 20 // Listening Options
 

 

Small Group Life Boats for Today's World

4 August 2022 at 16:35

As we approach the Fall, here are some tips for your congregation. We are in what I consider STORM conditions. I think most of you will benefit from a "Get everyone in lifeboats ASAP!!!" approach -- this means small groups, prioritizing and promoting group life, and helping newcomers bypass all barriers between them and face-to-face community experiences (online and onsite).



CHAPTERS
Jump to video YouTube video chapters using time code links below or in YouTube video description.

(0:00) Welcome
(
0:40) Training Preview
(
1:00) Digital is here to stay
(
2:30) Hour long online worship not a viable first step
(
5:00) Prioritize lifeboats = small groups!
(
6:26) Expect group-LESS people to drift away
(
7:20) Designing a viable congregation
(
8:30) Different types of groups
(
10:20) Connecting worship and group life
(
12:25) If you have declining membership
(
13:18) Use video to communicate and connect
(
14:20) Engaging with video now essential skill
(
15:00) Digital is a primary context of congregational life
(
16:00) Recap
(
16:17) Use groups to grow and rebuild
(
18:16) Focus, simplify, group up, and thrive!
(
19:00) Be clear, this is how we're organizing
(
19:15) Some will always want to opt out
(
19:50) Groups not your thing?
(
20:30) Video Message Academy
(
21:25) I know video is hard
(
21:40) Small group growth training
(
22:20) Share your questions
(
22:25) Closing. Thinking of you!

Want information on trainings mentioned in this video?  Click here to get my email updates for congregational leaders including training announcements,  live stream invitations, replays, and other free resources.

Congregations: Thriving This Fall

4 August 2022 at 16:35

As we approach the Fall, here are some tips for your congregation. We are in what I consider STORM conditions. I think most of you will benefit from a "Get everyone in lifeboats ASAP!!!" approach -- this means small groups, prioritizing and promoting group life, and helping newcomers bypass all barriers between them and face-to-face community experiences (online and onsite).



CHAPTERS
Jump to video YouTube video chapters using time code links below or in YouTube video description.

(0:00) Welcome
(
0:40) Training Preview
(
1:00) Digital is here to stay
(
2:30) Hour long online worship not a viable first step
(
5:00) Prioritize lifeboats = small groups!
(
6:26) Expect group-LESS people to drift away
(
7:20) Designing a viable congregation
(
8:30) Different types of groups
(
10:20) Connecting worship and group life
(
12:25) If you have declining membership
(
13:18) Use video to communicate and connect
(
14:20) Engaging with video now essential skill
(
15:00) Digital is a primary context of congregational life
(
16:00) Recap
(
16:17) Use groups to grow and rebuild
(
18:16) Focus, simplify, group up, and thrive!
(
19:00) Be clear, this is how we're organizing
(
19:15) Some will always want to opt out
(
19:50) Groups not your thing?
(
20:30) Video Message Academy
(
21:25) I know video is hard
(
21:40) Small group growth training
(
22:20) Share your questions
(
22:25) Closing. Thinking of you!

Want information on trainings mentioned in this video?  Click here to get my email updates for congregational leaders including training announcements,  live stream invitations, replays, and other free resources.

Making Innovation a Community Practice

5 April 2022 at 16:13
With the rate of change in our world accelerating, we need a new approach to changing our approach!   I believe we need to "institutionalize innovation" and make experimentation, exploration, and play a community practice.
 
Many leaders have a process whereby they SET their approach, model, process, methods, etc... and use it until it stops working in a major way. 
 
Then, after frustration and associated debate, there is a focused process launched to assess the problem and "fix" it.  That might include bringing in an expensive outside expert and perhaps a major redesign of communications or staffing.  Then, once the new way is established and everything seems to be in working order, that way gets locked down.  
 
This no longer works.   Things are changing too quickly. 
 
Instead, we need to develop a mindset and process that is more like surfing on the edge of constant change. 
 
Given the rate of change in our world -- from technology, climate change, and other disruptions -- the only way to achieve a stable viable approach is to establish an ongoing practice that allows for ongoing learning, experimentation, and innovation.  
 
Thanks to the pandemic, we've all had to deal with models that no longer work.  When our previous models aren't working, things get tense, it gets personal, and it becomes very hard to communicate, collaborate, and innovate!   
 
I believe leaders of congregations and other community organizations need to proactively communicate the need for experimentation, enlist their community in the process, and make it a fun, engaging, and collaborative experience.  
 
If we don't learn to surf on the waves of change, we are almost certain to get crushed by them!    
 
In this session, I share why congregations, membership-based nonprofits, and other community organizations need to make innovation a community practice.
 
If you need help implementing the ideas in this video, fill out the form on my contact page. We can schedule a time to discuss facilitated sessions with your team, board, or larger events.  


 

Watch this video on YouTube.  Subscribe to my channel and hit the 🔔 bell icon to be notified of new videos and live streams. 

5 Shifts Tipping Congregations Toward Decline

23 March 2022 at 12:56

The following is the replay from my March 24, 2022, live strategy session discussing the following question:

 "Changes in US society and culture seem to have made organized religion less relevant to our population. How can churches change how they "do church" to make them more relevant?"

What should congregations do in response to the decline of organized religion?  My short answer: Change HOW you organize!

Today's culture demands new approaches to how you lead, design, and facilitate congregational life.

Here are the 5 shifts I discuss in this video:

Shift 1: Where people spend their time and attention.

Shift 2: How people learn, research, and make decisions.

Shift 3: What online visitors need from congregations.

Shift 4: What people want from their leaders.

Shift 5: How people want their communities to be led.

The good news is that these cultural shifts are all things that congregations can adapt to.  If you have the desire, smartphones, and internet access, you have everything you need!

Watch below or on my Youtube channel You may subscribe to the channel here.


VIDEO CHAPTERS
0:00 Welcome
0:42 Live session introductions
2:50 My Background
4:14 Congregation have always been slow to change
6:28 Shift 1 - Where people spend their time and attention
10:51 Shift 2 - How people learn, research, and make decisions
13:29 Shift 3 - What online visitors need from congregations
17:21 Shift 4 - What people want from their leaders
20:08 Shift 5 - How people want their communities to be led
26:38 Questions and discussion

QUESTIONS   
🤔 Questions for future live strategy sessions may be submitted via my online Question Box form.

 
RELIGIOUS PROFESSIONALS
If you would like to organize an enrichment program or strategy session for denominational leaders, professional groups, or team, please complete the form on this page: Contact Peter Bowden

Changing how congregations "DO RELIGION" to stay relevant

23 March 2022 at 12:56

 Join me this Thursday for a LIVE STREAM tackling the question:

 "Changes in US society and culture seem to have made organized religion less relevant to our population. How can churches change how they "do church" to make them more relevant?"

Watch live here March 24 at 1:00PM Eastern: 

 

What should congregations do in response to the decline of organized religion?  My short answer: Change HOW you organize!

Today's culture demands new approaches to how you lead, design, and facilitate congregational life.

Here are the 5 shifts I discuss in this video:

Shift 1: Where people spend their time and attention.

Shift 2: How people learn, research, and make decisions.

Shift 3: What online visitors need from congregations.

Shift 4: What people want from their leaders.

Shift 5: How people want their communities to be led.
   

QUESTIONS   
🤔 Questions for future live strategy sessions may be submitted via my online Question Box form.

 
RELIGIOUS PROFESSIONALS
If you would like to organize an enrichment program or strategy session for denominational leaders, professional groups, or team, please complete the form on this page: Contact Peter Bowden

Crafting Engaging "Messages for All Ages"

27 January 2022 at 12:07

How do you design messages for online services that are engaging for children, families, and people of all ages? This question comes from a colleague in a congregational setting.

In the video below,  I share how I approach designing messages focused on sharing a specific teaching, insight, or life lesson. 

This draws on my experience working with preschoolers through elders, working as a producer and educator on nationally syndicated children's television shows, and coaching leaders on video & digital strategy.

This is ROUND 1 in response to my colleague's question.  Do you have follow-up questions?

I'm collecting follow-up questions in the video comments and via my online questions box form. After I collect questions, I'll do a follow-up video. 


If video won't play, watch it on YouTube here.  I'm having trouble with Firefox for some reason. Thx! Peter (1/27/22) 

COMMUNITY: Peter Bowden's Vision and Plans for 2022

3 January 2022 at 16:46

Happy 2022!  To my colleagues, family, friends, and all new to my community, here's an overview of my vision and plans for this year.  This is an overview of where my heart and attention are focused.

In addition to my existing training and coaching work with community leaders, I'm expanding my community-building efforts in these new and exciting ways:

1) Video Strategy for COMMUNITY Leaders

This year I'm expanding SOCIAL VIDEO strategy and skill training for community leaders so you can engage with and LEAD YOUR COMMUNITY in today's video-dominated world!

2) COMMUNITY for all via Small Group Lab open source models

To help crush our loneliness epidemic, engage people with the justice issues of our time, and ensure all people have meaningful connections, this year I'm sharing the core small group models I've used successfully for decades through my Small Group Lab project. Think "open source" resources you may use, adapt, and build upon. Free.

Decentralized. Autonomous. Non-hierarchical.

These resources are being optimized for supporting a decentralized autonomous small group network.

I believe that to meet our community needs as humans we need to re-connect in ways that aren't dependent on institutions, though nonprofits, congregations, schools, businesses, and other organizations can and should supersize their connecting efforts. I can help.

Free resources for individuals including guides, templates, and group sessions as they roll out in 2022, as well as updates on related training opportunities. Sign up for Small Group Lab updates at http://www.smallgrouplab.com 

Existing organizations, contact me for custom training, program design & implementation support.

Fans of DAO's  -- decentralized autonomous organizations: This is not a vision for a DAO.  I'm envisioning a decentralized network of independent small groups of friends, peers, colleagues, etc... who gather using a common format.  Gatherings may be online, physical, or a combination.  Groups are independent of any organization, though may be resourced by organizations choosing to create session content for the network.  There are emergent properties and benefits from using a common group format so we can move more readily between groups and share group session plans.)

3) My version of COMMUNITY groups! 

I've been participating in local offline communities my entire life. Over the last two years, like most people, things have changed. Now, I'm starting my own community groups where I can connect with others interested in the themes and topics I love exploring. These groups will serve as the engine for developing the content, such as group session plans, to be shared with others.

That's the overview!   I'll be sharing related resources on a rolling basis as we move into 2022.

Connect with me via social media here.

That's a Wrap! Retiring from 20 Years of Childrens Television Production

3 December 2021 at 00:00

After nearly 20 years, I'm officially retiring from my work with children's television production!     

For the last two decades, while growing my training and coaching practice, I worked as a producer and educator on multiple nationally syndicated PBS Kids shows and web series produced by GBH in Boston.  

Here are the shows I had the pleasure of producing live-action activity segments for: 

  • The Curious George Show
  • Peep and the Big Wide World
  • Pinkalicious and Peterrific
  • Fetch with Ruff Ruffman
  • Plum Landing
  • Matha Speaks
  • Design Squad
  • Arthur 

So, why retire from such amazing work?  Two primary reasons. 

  1. My work as a trainer and coach has grown to the point where I don't need the work.  Hooray for me!  

  2. Specializing in community-building and using media to educate & inspire,  I want to use my skills to strengthen the social fabric of society and engage people with the justice issues of our time.          

Conversation and community can serve as a catalyst for building trust, deepening understanding, and inspiring action on the issues we care about.  

That's it!   I'll share more on what's next --- new projects coming!!! --- after the New Year.

Video Examples

Below are some of the many video segments we've produced over the years.  For all of these, I'm just off-camera working with the participating children, running the activity, tracking our educational objectives, and more! 

  

Video  

  Watch even more of our videos in this playlist.

New Year Brule Break-a-thon with Tara Sage

28 December 2021 at 10:55

Hi friends!

The New Year is upon us and I have an exciting way I'm kicking it off -- and you're invited! 

Recently a friend of mine, life coach Tara Sage, published the best-selling book The Brules of Life:15 Bullsh*t Rules to Break for a No-Vacation-Needed Life.

It's about identifying the unofficial rules that hold us back so we can intentionally break them and move forward. 

As I was reading The Brules of Life I had two thoughts:

1)  My face is smushed up against a BRULE BARRIER.  Yes, there are brules I've internalized that are holding me back. Time to name them and break them!  Not laws, mind you, but assumptions about what is allowed, who has permission to act, etc...

2) Talking BRULES with TARA would make for an amazing New Year live stream event! 

I reached out to Tara with that idea and she loved it.  So we are joining forces to host a New Year BRULE BREAK-A-THON!

UPDATE:  Here's the replay!

• Subscribe to Peter's YouTube channel

Subscribe to Tara's YouTube channel

Hybrid Church Strategy Session

12 February 2021 at 15:11

Friday Hot Topics 🔥 Ministry Strategy Session
Many congregations are starting to look at hybrid ministry approaches seeking to integrate gathering online and offline. In this session, I share some considerations based on my MOST RECENT conversations with congregational leaders. This is an ongoing conversation.

About this week's sessions
This week, February 8 through February 12, I'm going live daily to discuss digital ministry, hybrid church models, and other HOT TOPICS based on your interest.

What is Digital Ministry? Marketing vs. Doing Ministry

30 September 2021 at 15:15

For congregations to thrive in today's digitally oriented world, it is important to understand how DIGITAL MINISTRY differs from SOCIAL MEDIA and MARKETING.

The digital ministry shift is a move from using social media solely to promote ministry opportunities to actually doing ministry on social media. 

Yes, we need to promote and market events. That's true.  But to harness the power of social media we need to go further!   

In this episode, I share a concrete example related to educating and orienting newcomers.  That's right...  How to move your welcoming and membership ministry online using social! 

Watch or listen below. 

 

🎧 Listen to this episode via my podcast:
You may play it below or click the icons (left to right) to subscribe, download, embed, or share this episode.

 

Episode Notes

Social Media

Think about all the different social media platforms we have. Facebook, Instagram, Twitter.  Video posting platforms, audio hosting platforms. Generally, they allow us to share some kind of content -- photo, video, audio, and text.

We are able to put out some kind of content, some kind of message, and we have the ability to comment, reply, and interact around that message.  So there's sharing content and there's interaction. 

Social media gives us this amazing power!   What we do with it is up to us.   Think of it as raw capacity.

Marketing

With marketing, which can be done via social media, we are generally communicating in an effort to raise interest, awareness, curiosity, or some emotion related to something we want people to do, attend, or engage with.

Very often, when it comes to congregations, it's sharing announcements.  Here's a picture, here's a meme, here's a graphic related to some event or opportunity.  We're trying to get people to go to an event, such as attend a worship service or do something.

That's the majority of content congregations in the United States are generating on social media -- marketing-focused announcements. 

Digital Ministry

Now, what about digital ministry?  This is when we move from trying to promote events or opportunities via social media and start using social media platforms, or other digital tools, to actually DO ministry online.

Here's an example that I use in my Digital Ministry Academy and Video Ministry Academy trainings for religious professionals, staff, and volunteer leaders. 

Interested in training for your professional group, conference, or denomination? Contact me for live online trainings, seminars, and keynotes.

Congregations often hold events for newcomers designed to educate and orient them.   Think about how you are presently accomplishing this task.  

We can design an event to welcome and orient newcomers that is held offline in a building or online via a Zoom meeting. In either case, it is a discrete event that we want to get people to go to.

We could use the power of social media -- that raw capacity to share and interact -- to post announcements and other content promoting this event.  Our goal? To get newcomers to attend!  That's marketing.

To use social media to actually DO ministry in this example, we can shift where the orienting is happening.  Instead of some other event, we can answer questions directly on social media.

This could take the form of posting a photo of your connections team and a prompt for people to share questions they have.

We could go a step further and have a member of the team share a video where they share a welcome, some basic information, and ask people if they have questions.

Want to go next level?   Schedule a live Q&A session online with your team.  Invite people to share questions and join you live at the scheduled time!  Answer the questions shared in advance, questions shared live, and help people get welcomed, oriented, and connected right there on social media. 

What about the value of the event NOT on social media?  Well, if you can get people there, it is great!   But more and more people want that intro level content to be available when they are doing their research BEFORE they are ready to engage with your congregation.    

Live Stream Q&A

I use Stream Yard (referral link) to live stream to multiple social media platforms at once.  For example, I'll do live ministry strategy sessions with the live broadcast going to my YouTube channel, Facebook page, Twitter account, and one or more Facebook groups.  I love having the power to be on multiple platforms live all at once!

You could schedule a live Q&A session with your team using Zoom and broadcast the video to a scheduled YouTube live video (read how to via Zoom blog).  That video player could be shared in advance across your social media channels, email, and embedded on the newcomer page of your website!

Zoom is Digital, I know...

Okay, you may be thinking "Peter, Zoom is online and it is digital so a newcomer event held on Zoom is digital ministry." You are right!   For simplicity, I didn't bring that up in the video. Moving offline newcomer events online via Zoom is a great step.  For events that are geared for people who are curious and looking for more info but not ready to attend an event, the live stream option is great.   

 

Multi-Platform Worship: Crowdsourcing Wisdom & Insights

14 September 2021 at 11:14
It should be no surprise that 🔥 MULTI-PLATFORM WORSHIP 🔥 is a hot topic right now!
 
I'm having a wide range of conversations with clergy, staff, and volunteers related to multi-platform ministry, digital life, growth, outreach, membership development, etc... and all conversations tend to lead back to "hybrid" worship.
 
To help us learn, innovate, and iterate faster, I want to start holding regular Zoom sessions designed to crowdsource our wisdom and insight -- religious professionals, staff, and volunteer leaders.

 

These times call for collaboration and rapid innovation!  I think a monthly crowdsourcing session would be good.  Not just on multi-platform worship, but a wide range of issues.  

 
The first session will be on multi-platform worship. What other topics would you like to work on? 
 
Unitarian Universalist congregations: If you are a member of my Facebook group for UU leaders you may share your topic ideas in our group here.
 
If you have topic suggestions, I'd love to hear from you.  
 
Want to be invited to this session?  Please make sure you are on my email list for Unitarian Universalist leaders.
 
Thank you!
 

On Technology, Staffing & Multi-Platform Ministry

6 September 2021 at 14:46

Is your congregation considering new tech staffing?  This is for you!  Please share this with any congregation you know who is in discernment on this issue. 

Here's the question I keep getting, often when the process is far along and jobs are being threatened....

Question:

Peter, should we downsize our existing program staff and invest in a full-time tech person?

Quick Answer:  No! In my professional opinion that's a horrible idea for most congregations.  Better to invest in your existing staff & volunteers, cultivate new volunteers, see how far you can go and grow together, adding tech & media skills and associated tasks to portfolios of your staff and volunteers.  If there are tech tasks that you must have covered, start with temporary contracts to supplement your existing team.

Watch this for my long answer:

 


All congregations need to be working to develop their media and tech capacity. But this shouldn't be implemented as knee-jerk actions throwing money at staffing. I know it is easy to want to fix the problem by hiring a new staff person. 

 

Some day you may need to, but if you are in an emergency "Ah!!!! We need to go hybrid / multi-platform, and I can't do one more thing lets hire a new staff position" state, that isn't fair to your team, your congregation, and isn't a responsible use of funds.     

 

I hear staff saying that there are no volunteers so they have to hire staff ASAP!  

 

Well, congregations that haven't been talking about vision, mission, their calling, the future, and the role of social media, technology, and other aspects of digital life won't have tech and media volunteers hanging around. They haven't been needed or appreciated.

 

Hiring tech and communications staff, especially if budgets are tight, should follow a process that highlights the importance of media and technology and the building of an associated volunteer & ministry capacity.

 

What, there are no volunteers in this area? If you have never done a THING before, of course, you have no associated THING volunteers around. But if you start talking about why that THING is so important, all of a sudden the people who are good at that THING and LOVE your congregation are like to show up.

 

 

It is also important to recognize that we are being called to integrate our ministry and technology. For most congregations, this means not thinking of technology as a separate role from other staffing, volunteer, and ministry roles but an integral part of them — a part we need to carefully and intentionally cultivate.

 

At the heart of any viable hybrid future are staff and volunteers (with appropriate skill & strategy training) who are actively BUILDING relationships, FACILITATING conversations, and ENGAGING with members, friends, and newcomers in digital and physical spaces.

 

Instead of rushing to hire a new staff person to handle all the tech, keep in mind that you can't outsource ministry. Yes, you can hire AV people to run cameras, and hire Zoom worship associates to do the logistics, but at the heart of our ministry is relationship.

 

We can teach existing staff and volunteers new skills and strategies! 

• How to engage with newcomers in digital spaces! 

• How to run amazing Zoom-based connecting events that out-perform anything you've done offline for newcomers to date!!!

• How to use social media video to tell the story of your congregation.

• How to use multi-platform streaming tools like StreamYard allowing you to reach more people, more spaces, and do it all LIVE like a digital rock star! 

• How to use small groups to make your ministry more relational, meaningful and transformative while being able to move between online and physical gatherings with ease!

• And more.... 

 

But it is much HARDER to get a turn a tech staffer into a minister, a membership coordinator, a pastoral care associate, a passionate member, and a new-found friend.

 

⁠⁠I know many of you feel the urge to GO BIG with tech staff because you need the help making whatever is going to come next happen. 

 

I understand. I get it. 

 

But rushing in this direction while cutting other positions and failing to do the visioning, leadership, and volunteer development work is not the way forward.

 

Instead of new tech staffing, invest in your existing staff & volunteers, cultivate new volunteers, see how far you can go and grow together, adding tech & media skills and associated tasks to their portfolios.  If there are tech tasks that you must have covered, start with temporary contracts to supplement your existing team.

 

Hope this helps!

On Relaunching Congregations This Fall

9 August 2021 at 18:56

I'm talking with leaders about regathering their congregations this Fall.  One of my recommendations? Think about it like we are RELAUNCHING our congregations.   That's the kind of spirit and energy I think we need to bring to our regathering efforts. 

Not just gathering again, but a full relaunch.  New energy, new models, new opportunities -- new and exciting!!!  

I know that's a lot.   But I think that's what we need to bring people back and to welcome new members in.

This is serious business, especially with the pandemic accelerating declining attendance trends. Enough to make me put on my serious face... 

But it is also incredibly exciting!

Our challenge?

To reconnect our communities -- including outreach to newcomers -- we need more effective communication, leaders using social media and video in ways that build relationships and deploy intentional strategies to help people take their next steps in congregational life.

That's a lot to figure out.

So my recommendation is to NOT try and figure it out all on your own. Let me help you. I've been working on this for years.   

Unitarian Universalist congregations (my home denomination) are invited to join my new UU Digital Ministry Academy program!

Our first live training is coming up Saturday.  For those who can't make it, there will be other repeat sessions plus on-demand video content available.

Members of the program get access to all program live trainings, strategy sessions, implementation events, and replays and other content on-demand.

To learn more and join us visit: http://www.digitalministryacademy.com

PS -- Short on time?  Below is a 90-second explanation of UU Digital Ministry Academy. 

Summer Training Update!

26 June 2021 at 13:38

Friends,  here's a quick update on what's coming this Summer 🌞

This is just a preview.  Training topics include digital ministry, social media, small groups, and membership development.  That and lots of time to talk strategy and issues related to re-gathering and re-launching this Fall. 

I'll share the full details, dates, and open registration after  July 4th.

I know some of you are taking a break, others are leading Summer services and programming, and others working hard on preparing for the Fall.  My goal is to be there to support you whenever you are ready! 

 

PS -- Watch to the end for my sea monster impression. 🐉

🚀 SUBSCRIBE HERE for free content, online training event invitations, and more for Unitarian Universalist religious professionals, staff & volunteers!

 

UU Digital Ministry - New Plan, New Program!

15 June 2021 at 00:00

Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!

Based on your survey feedback and resulting conversations, I'm launching a 100% redesigned Unitarian Universalist Digital Ministry program.

Here are some features of the new program:

• Open to all UU congregations
• Offers ongoing digital ministry strategy, skill training, and support
• For teams: volunteers, staff, and religious professionals
• On-demand content
• Live strategy sessions via Zoom
• Additional live stream Q&A sessions in response to your questions
• Monthly subscription affordable for congregations of all sizes and budgets

Do you like the idea of our doing Unitarian Universalist DIGITAL MINISTRY together? I can't wait! I'll be sharing much more shortly.

This is just a quick "I listened! Change of direction..." update.

What about the other program?  I'm following up with those who expressed interest in that program.

Thanks to all who completed the survey. I greatly appreciate your sharing your ideas, insight, and support needs with me.

Questions, comments, ideas?
I'm working hard at adapting to the needs of our congregations as conditions shift season by season. If you have ideas or special requests, I'd love to hear from you.  Contact me.

Digital Ministry Accelerator Program - Overview and Feedback Requested

11 June 2021 at 16:38

Update: Based on your feedback I'm 100% redesigning my training programs!  Make sure you sign up to get training updates. Details are coming out the week of June 23, 2021.

 

Friends, here's an overview of my new Digital Ministry Accelerator program, DMAX for short.  It is a 12-week program for Unitarian Universalist parish ministers (this round) and their congregations.  Interested ministers, I'd love your feedback! 

Please complete this brief program survey: SURVEY COMPLETED

Your responses will help me finalize the program design and the day and time we'll hold our weekly strategy sessions.    Thank you!

 

 

Peter Bowden on the UU podcast "The Flame" by Roddy Biggs

5 April 2021 at 13:40

Friends, recently I had the opportunity to be a guest on the new Unitarian Universalist podcast "The Flame" by Roddy Biggs!

Grateful for the chance to reflect on a range of issues related to UU life, ministry, media, and the pandemic through this conversation.  Thanks, Roddy!  

If you'd like to have future episodes delivered to your device, subscribe to The Flame podcast.

About the podcast

The Flame is a Unitarian Universalist faith-centered podcast offering voices and stories of hope, love, resilience, and community. Witness real conversations, ones that sometimes tackle challenging topics but safely and bravely. Whether you are a lifelong Unitarian Universalist, new to the faith, or this is the first time you are hearing of the Unitarian Universalist faith, I welcome you just as you are.

 

Pandemic Ministry: Leadership, Clarity, and Uncertainty

22 March 2021 at 17:00

As we enter year two of the pandemic, uncertainty is a core aspect of our ministry context.  How can we lead when so much is unknown? 

Leaders and their congregations must have great clarity of mission and the vision they want to work toward.  To work toward a clear mission-driven vision,  facing the unknown as a community together is the path. 

We can't have productive conversations about models, approaches, and staffing if we don't have clarity on our mission in 2021 and a powerful vision specific to our present ministry context.

YouTube video chapters
(0:00​) Welcome
(3:19​) Covid19 Year One. 
(7:28​) Covid19 Year Two?
(9:16​) Leadership, Clarity, and Uncertainty


Interview with the Rev. Christana Wille McKnight

17 March 2021 at 14:07

In this interview with the Rev. Christana Wille McKnight, minister of First Parish in Taunton, MA , we discuss the principles and strategies that helped this Unitarian Universalist congregation move from being at risk of closing to becoming a thriving small congregation playing a major role in Taunton’s revitalization efforts.  

Get the "Playbook"
Rev. Christana Wille McKnight has kindly shared a Google Doc on the 11 points we discussed in this interview.  To get the playbook, click here to open the Google Doc and then hit the add to drive icon to save a link to it in your drive.

WATCH


VIDEO  CHAPTERS
(0:00) Countdown
(
0:43) Welcome
(
2:00) Overview of Transformation
(
6:00) Rev. Christana Wille McKnight's "playbook"'
(
6:25) 1. Live Invitational Culture
(
9:29) 2. Use Accessible Language
(
12:05) 3. Put Your Words into Action
(
17:15) 4. Create Intentionally Welcoming Community
(
19:20) 5. Reflect Your Community and Context.
(
20:48) 6. Understand that Every Person Who Comes to Your Church Will Change It
(
25:18) 7. Know Your Community’s History, Culture, Demographics and Needs Deeply
(
32:25) 8. Create the Infrastructure to Help the Church You Want to Become Thrive
(
37:35) 9. Create a Multicultural Worship Experience
(
39:45) 10. Talk About Racism, Classism and the Injustices in the World in Meaningful Ways and Work to End These Unjust Constructs
(
45:10) 11. Understand That Unitarian Universalism is a Theology, Not Culture.
(
53:45) Wrapping up!

•  Due to internet issues we had to use a cell phone for an internet connection. We decided to go forward as is instead of rescheduling.  There some resulting audio pops. Sorry for the glitch.   

• You may watch here as well as on my Unitarian Universalist Youtube Channel and Facebook Page.   

LISTEN

Listen to this interview via my podcast below. You may subscribe here and have new episodes automatically delivered to your device.  

 

 

❌