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A growing church reality: Digital worship fatigue

Michie

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When the pandemic arrived, churches around the world had no choice but to pivot to online worship. Sanctuaries were empty, but livestreams and Zoom calls gave congregations a way to stay connected. For a time, the transition felt almost miraculous. Churches that had never considered online ministry suddenly found themselves reaching people far beyond their usual walls.

Some pastors even reported record numbers. Views were counted in the hundreds or thousands. Sermons were being streamed across states and even countries. The excitement was palpable. Many wondered if this was the new normal for the Church.

But four years later, the enthusiasm has waned. Online worship remains a tool, but it no longer carries the same momentum. Attendance is down, engagement is weak, and many believers are simply tired of digital church. What began as a lifeline has in many cases become a burden. This growing reality has a name: digital worship fatigue.

Online worship is declining in popularity

When the pandemic forced churches to close their doors, online worship became the only option. Overnight, pastors scrambled to set up cameras, stream services, and learn new platforms. For a while, it worked. In fact, many churches reported that their digital attendance exceeded their in-person numbers. The thinking was simple: this is the future.

Continued below.
 
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Bob Crowley

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I wasn't a fan of digital worship, even when for a brief period the churches closed their doors.

As soon as possible I went back to actually being there. We're meant for community and we can't get that glued to a computer screen.

My wife occasionally watches her own church services but there will be a reason. Recently she had a knee arthroscopy and for a few weeks was limited in what she could do. But once she was back on her feet, she went back to church and her Bible study group.
 
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Michie

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I wasn't a fan of digital worship, even when for a brief period the churches closed their doors.

As soon as possible I went back to actually being there. We're meant for community and we can't get that glued to a computer screen.

My wife occasionally watches her own church services but there will be a reason. Recently she had a knee arthroscopy and for a few weeks was limited in what she could do. But once she was back on her feet, she went back to church and her Bible study group.
While it’s nice for shut ins. I see lots of people using it as an excuse more times than not.
 
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