A helpful message From our friend, Jason Lumpkin, About an online presence During the coronavirus Pandemic

COVID-19 RESOURCES -- CORONAVIRUS

Atlanta Metro Baptist Association will be providing and updating resources for you during the Coronavirus Pandemic. 

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While this has caught us by surprise, our God is never surprised. We want to remind you of a few things first.

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1. God has not given us a spirit of fear.

We are the body of Christ who serves the God of the universe.  He's creator and sustainer. We trust Him, above all.

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2. God has provided us the hope of the gospel for our family and neighbors.

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3. We have the potential to make a difference for the gospel during these uncertain and fearful days. 

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RESOURCES FOR YOU AND YOUR CHURCH:

• Latest Information on the Coronavirus from the CDC 
   

• Church Marketing University - The Ultimate Guide for Churches
   

• Coronavirus and the Church -- Multiple Resources
   

• A well-done resource on how to respond as a church with ideas on serving, streaming, giving, consideration for how this may impact Easter, and other resource links
   

• A Christianity Today Coronavirus Guide for Churches
   

• Lifeway has prepared a Free Coronavirus Preparation Guide for Churches
  
  
   

STREAMING AND ONLINE PLATFORMS: Many churches have found that streaming with Facebook Live, Instagram TV, or Youtube have been inexpensive options; however, some churches may seek a more professional experience. The more professional experience is not necessary for most, but worth a look.

When streaming, keep in mind that people have a smaller attention span in an online environment. We recommend keeping the worship in shorter segments with a 20-minute message. You may want to consider utilizing a few shorter 5 minute Bible Study segments throughout the week. It is imperative to have a more conversational style online.

• Why live streaming is not the full answer for churches during COVID-19
   

• An article with Seven (7) Free Live Streaming Platforms -- Consider the immediate option of Facebook Live for ease with a smartphone or tablet
   

• A comprehensive description of how to use Facebook Live -- This is a marketing link for a blog on HubSpot, but it's excellent.
   

• A more professional option for streaming at Livestream.
   

• Small groups may use an online zoom video conference service for free up to 40 minutes and up to 100 participants. It is an invite-only option with a meeting ID or a call-in feature. Other options may be google hangouts. See a link describing several options with descriptions.
   

• Please note legal licensing requirements for streaming live worship music online:

  • Christian Copyright Solutions

  • Christian Copyright Licensing International CCLI
     

• Four (4) Critical Pointers for Preaching to a Camera in an Empty Room
   

• Thoughts for a Senior Adult Population that may not have an online option

  • Utilize the Zoom call-in feature with the passcode only  -- While you may utilize the zoom video conference function, others may simply call in and input the code after being connected to the phone number.

  • Free Conference Calling
    
     

ONLINE AND ALTERNATIVE GIVING OPTIONS FOR CHURCHES: Your church's present church and database software company may have options for alternative ways to give; however, if you are looking for a quick option, please review some of the methods listed below.

• Tithe-ly
   

• Givelify -- Requires checking account verification for deposits
   

• Paypal for Non-Profits
   

• Pushpay
   

• Special Giving Platform by Lifeway
   

• Check with your Database or Church Software Company for other options
  
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Continue to check our Facebook Page for other links as we come across them.