Hello, friends of Pixel & Pulpit! Welcome back—it’s time for season two of this blog. Do blogs have seasons?
It's been a while since our last post, and I've missed sharing the evolving field of digital and nerd ministry to your feeds.
The past few months have been a whirlwind as we've rapidly expanded Checkpoint Church and navigated the ever-shifting landscape of digital ministry. I want to begin by acknowledging the gap in posts here and thank you for sticking around. Not just sticking around but continuing to grow by leaps and bounds as we swiftly approach 500 subscribers.
In this first entry back, let's reflect on where we've been and set some goals together to ensure that Pixel & Pulpit continues to offer meaningful and supportive insights for all digital ministers.
Catch-Up
Since we last connected, Checkpoint Church went viral, bringing a mix of excitement and fear.
We experienced rapid growth, and I've learned much about SEO (Search Engine Optimization) and digital marketing. There are countless tips, tricks, and strategies that I've picked up while navigating this journey, and I'm eager to share them with you.
Navigating virality is not just about managing numbers; it's about keeping a steady hand on the wheel amidst new challenges and increased scrutiny. At times, balancing family, pastoral duties, and digital content creation became overwhelming.
As we adjusted our approach, I realized the importance of staying adaptable and prioritizing meaningful engagement over metrics. This sentiment will likely be popping up more routinely in these posts.
What is our purpose?
Pixel & Pulpit was initially envisioned as a haven for gathering and learning. I still think this is a vital need, but I'm unsure if Pixel & Pulpit is the place to host those conversations. A comment section is only as helpful as it can be.
But our path is evolving as we pivot toward coaching and sharing practical knowledge that empowers digital ministers and nerd ministry leaders to succeed. I will work toward developing my individual role as a coach and mentor capable of offering something to those entering this field or ready to take things to the next level.
I've seen firsthand the value of providing a space for cohort-style conversations where we can share ideas and lean on one another for support. I am working at the United Methodist Church to provide a space like that since Pixel & Pulpit won't be able to provide it.
Our revised purpose is to equip digital and nerd ministry leaders through the experiences of a practitioner—someone who's in the trenches with you, facing the same challenges. Our "Three Cs" remain central to our mission: Continuing Education, Collaboration, and Coaching.
- Continuing Education: Digital ministry is rapidly changing, and staying current is vital. Expect practical and innovative insights, like my predictions on how AI and AR could impact digital ministry.
- Collaboration: I will aim to continue offering spaces for conversation, but I also hope to pivot into collaborating with innovative digital ministers to tell their stories in this space instead of hoping for organic conversation in the comments.
- Coaching: I'll continue sharing stories and lessons from my experience to help guide you in your ministry. As things progress, I’ll consider what making myself available for more 1-1 coaching means.
Re-Evaluating Subscriptions
Free subscribers can expect the same quality of posts and, hopefully, more of them. I'm eager to reach more pastors and ministry leaders, and your feedback will shape this journey.
I'm working on refining the value proposition for paid subscribers and aligning it more closely with your needs. I'll share more information as these changes roll out in one-off posts.
Founding members, you'll be hearing from me soon to schedule a coaching call so we can discuss how to support your unique journey.
World 2-1 Complete
I’m energized about the future of Pixel & Pulpit, and I hope you are, too. This isn't just a blog; it's a community for digital ministers who understand the unique challenges and triumphs of nerd culture ministry. I have big plans to make this space more vibrant and valuable in the days ahead. If you've been around for a while or are just joining us, welcome! Let's commit to continuing this journey together and building a brighter future for digital ministry.
Your insights and questions help shape the content here, so please share your thoughts in the comments. What goals do you have for this community? What would you like to see more of? Let’s move forward, reinvigorated and ready to tackle the future together!
For more content and a community like this, consider subscribing to Pixel & Pulpit.
Welcome to our SEVENTY-TWO new subscribers since our last post! We’re glad you’re here. This puts us closer than ever to our goal of 500 subscribers - currently at 417.
Why did the digital pastor bring a router to the sermon?
To ensure everyone had a divine connection!