Live Streaming

Live streaming can seem daunting but, in most churches, it is possible with the right knowledge and equipment.

For many churches, live-streaming began during the COVID-19 pandemic as a way of staying connected with their congregation. Since then, it has become clear that the benefits extend far beyond the circumstances that first made it necessary.

Live-streaming helps to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to participate in church life, regardless of their circumstances. Whether someone is unwell, caring for a family member, has mobility challenges, lacks transport, is working away from home, or simply cannot attend on a particular day, live streaming helps them remain connected to their church community. By making services and events accessible online, churches can extend their welcome beyond the church building and ensure that nobody feels excluded.

It also enables family members and friends living further afield to share in important moments. Weddings, funerals, baptisms, memorial services and other special events can be viewed by loved ones who may be unable to attend in person.

Live-streaming can also help churches connect with new people. For those who may feel uncertain about attending a service for the first time, watching online offers a gentle introduction to the church community and worship style before stepping through the door.

Many churches are surprised to discover how simple live streaming can be. It doesn’t necessarily have to involve expensive cameras, specialist equipment or technical expertise. In many cases, all that is needed is a smartphone, a reliable internet connection and a free social media platform such as Facebook or YouTube.

Above all, live streaming complements rather than replaces in-person worship. It is another way of sharing ministry, fellowship and community, helping churches stay connected with existing members while welcoming a wider audience.

Digital Tools and Resources

We have created a Guide to Live Streaming, which shares useful tips for getting started, equipment you may need, and the practicalities. Click here to read and download our Live Streaming guide.

There is an opportunity to live-stream services for people who are unable to attend in person. Click here to see a step-by-step guide to online and onsite services from The Church of England.

If you are thinking of investing in equipment such as a sound system, projector, loop system or live streaming equipment, Church Sound Systems could help you.

Diocese of Exeter Webinars

If you missed our July 2020 webinar all about live streaming, you can watch it here

Song Licensing

More information about live streaming and song licensing in churches can be found here

Companies which install livestreaming equipment

If you are in a position to invest in cameras and sound equipment to livestream, there are companies which work with lots of churches and can install them for you:

API Communications

Alive Church Systems

Faith Online

Other resources

Helpful guidance for joining services as an online guest can be found here.

Please also join our CofEDevon Comms & Digital Group on Facebook to share ideas and advice about how to effectively reach our communities during this time

Safeguarding

Our Safeguarding team has written some guidance to help churches safely use video conferencing platforms as part of their ministry. Click here to read the guidance