But is Digital Ministry *Really* Incarnational?
But is Digital Ministry *Really* Incarnational?
Flesh and blood and cyberspace
A few months ago, I reached out to my peers in ministry on social media and asked what questions they had about digital ministry. One of the questions was from Jeremy, who asked:
How is digital ministry incarnational?
Since the inception of Checkpoint Church, the digital-first church I planted, I had this curious question at the forefront of my mind. It was planted firmly beside the question of the ecclesiology of a digital church. The two are very similar yet distinct.
An irony—perhaps—might be that I find myself more regularly incarnated in the space called Checkpoint Church than I have in any church I’ve had the joy of being in. While it may seem difficult to make digital ministry feel embodied, the folks who find a digital church effective use those spaces far more frequently than any of the brick-and-mortar experiences I know about.
In an age where technology permeates every aspect of our lives, the concept of digital ministry presents a unique opportunity to embody the essence of neo-monasticism. Neo-monasticism emphasizes intentional community living, spiritual discipline, and service, ideals that can be actualized through the virtual realm, notably on platforms like Discord.
Neo-Monasticism and Digital Community
Neo-monasticism, rooted in early Christian monastic traditions, focuses on forming intentional communities dedicated to spiritual growth and mutual support. This concept translates well into digital spaces, where communities like those on Discord exemplify a modern monastic living “in the world.”
With its always-on nature, Discord offers a continuous communal presence that mirrors the constancy of traditional monastic life. It could be 3 in the morning or the evening—East or West Coast, Australia, whatever—and we will have over a hundred members of our server just in the church building. This should boggle the mind as someone who grew up with an hour on Sundays and Wednesdays.
Discord servers can function like a monastery, providing a structured environment where members can engage in spiritual practices, participate in discussions, and support each other in unceasing connection.
These servers often have designated channels for prayer requests, Bible study, and theological discussions, creating a space where faith can be nurtured continuously. The flexibility and accessibility of Discord make it an ideal platform for those seeking a spiritual community but unable to participate in traditional, in-person gatherings.
Designing these societies also challenges digital ministers to create spaces where individuals feel seen, heard, and valued for who they are rather than just what they bring to the table. This human-centric approach is vital for cultivating genuine relationships and fostering a sense of spiritual family.
How do you know you’re embodied?
I can still recall the moment I discovered why digital ministry works. I was sitting on a video call of Discord, eating lunch with several folks who had been in the community for a while. I had my camera on and was broadcasting my face to the group. There were maybe two or three others who did the same. One of those who had their camera off suddenly flipped their camera on, and the tone of the conversation changed entirely. The person was now more engaged, present, and familiar to everyone involved.
When individuals turn on their cameras during video calls, a profound shift occurs—they become more than just voices or text on a screen; they become fully present. This visual connection breaks down the barriers of physical absence and reinforces the incarnational nature of digital ministry. Seeing each other’s faces, sharing smiles, and reading body language all contribute to a richer, more embodied experience. This visual engagement fosters trust, empathy, and a sense of togetherness, critical components for any faith-based community. And these are all rooted in that trust of the first time one turns on their camera.
In these digital gatherings, the act of turning on the camera signifies a commitment to being present and engaged. It’s a declaration of participation and vulnerability, as participants allow others into their personal spaces, albeit virtually. It’s a level of saying “yes” to the community gathered. This presence can deepen relationships and enhance the sense of community, enabling more authentic and personal interactions.
Communion in the Digital Age
A beautiful illustration of digital ministry's incarnational capacity is an aspect of how Checkpoint Church observes communion. During online services, participants touch the same broadcast image simultaneously, creating a literal and metaphorical connection despite physical distance. I liken it to "holding hands" through the screen. Imagine if we did that during the observance of the Eucharist in person! It’s a powerful reminder that the body of Christ transcends physical boundaries, and the sacred act of communion can be fully experienced in a digital format.
This practice of digital communion challenges traditional notions of physical presence in sacramental theology, suggesting that spiritual unity can be achieved through shared experiences, even when mediated by technology. If I may be so bold, it does not abolish the experience of communion for anyone else but fulfills it by expanding the open table to the digital native. By innovating in this way, digital ministries demonstrate that ancient practices can find new (yet old) life in contemporary contexts, offering meaningful spiritual experiences to those who may be physically isolated but are spiritually connected.
World 2-4 Complete
Digital ministry, when approached with intentionality and a focus on genuine connection, can fully embody the principles of neo-monasticism and incarnational theology. Platforms like Discord create spaces for continuous community engagement and deep personal connections. Digital churches can foster a profound sense of belonging and spiritual growth in a whole new people group by valuing the person behind the screen and innovatively observing sacred traditions like communion. In this way, the digital church not only survives but thrives, embodying the love and presence of Christ in the digital age.
Digital ministry is not just a temporary solution or a secondary form of church; it is a legitimate and vital expression of faith in the modern world. By embracing the tools and opportunities presented by technology, the church can continue to fulfill its mission to reach and minister to all people, regardless of physical location. As we move forward, let us embrace the incarnational capacity of digital ministry, recognizing it as a powerful means to live out our faith in a connected, yet often disconnected, world.
Q: Why does the digital pastor prefer co-op games?
A: Because they are always looking for another Prayer.