Church Video: Visions, Visuals, and Video – Part Two
Church Video: Visions, Visuals, and Video – Part Two
Last time we began a discussion on the use of visuals in our worship services. We looked at several examples we find in Scripture where God used visuals to catch the attention of people he wanted to communicate to. Today, I’ll start us on a path of thinking about all of the visuals we use in producing meaningful and engaging worship experiences.
Have you been to a sporting event lately? Last week I took my son to see the Washington Capitals play the NY Rangers at the Verizon Center in downtown D.C. The use of engaging visuals started even before we saw the puck drop; in fact it started OUTSIDE the venue. From the team mascot (Slapshot) to the band playing on the sidewalk the visuals captured our attention and brought adrenalin-pumping excitement to the thousands of fans waiting to enter the arena. Once inside, the use of special effects lighting, video, and crowd-engaging, complimentary handouts got everyone revved up to cheer for the team! (By the way, the Caps won 2-0).
What if we as worship ministry leaders use this idea and begin planning VISUALS that engage the heart and soul even BEFORE people enter the worship space? What if when people first drive up onto your campus they already begin seeing/visualizing the theme of the day? You may think this is a “facilities” or “First Impressions” issue. But what if the worship-planning team begins working with the facilities and first impressions teams to coordinate the entire experience? I’m not suggesting some elaborate thing that costs way too much, but rather simple things, props, tools, that provide hints and connect with the day’s themes.
Some time in the next month I challenge you to take a hard look at the what people are SEEING even before the first note is played or word spoken from the stage.
Here’s a checklist:
Start at the driveway
What am I seeing when i pull into the parking lot. Is there something that will begin engaging the heart and soul? Is there anything that relates to the theme of the service? Many churches are good at this around Easter time with a cross in the front, but what about the rest of the year?
Walk up to the building
Look around, what is engaging you? Our church (Lifepoint Church) occasionally has props, people, and other engaging visuals outside the door that relate to what people will experience inside. It’s attractive, attention-getting, and makes us curious.
Walk through the foyer
What are you seeing that will begin giving people an idea of what the service will be about? It could be as simple as a video monitor with the theme or message title. It could be a simple prop that makes people wonder. Or if you want to be more engaging, create an interactive Q & A on video monitors that relate to the day’s topic. These type of things begin to engage the mind and heart, and can help prepare one for a meaningful God-encounter.
Be excellent!
When you use visuals, they can be simple, but they should always be done with excellence. Don’t have a prop or visual in the foyer just to have one. Be intentional. Be authentic. Do it with excellence!
Visuals, even simple ones, are powerful tools that help people to remember the experience and ultimately help people connect with God in meaningful ways. Next time we’ll begin discussing visual ideas that you can use inside the worship meeting space – we’ll even begin talking about video.
As always send me your feedback; and if you would like to contact me directly, email me at [email protected].
