Date

8-29-2025

Department

Rawlings School of Divinity

Degree

Doctor of Education in Christian Leadership (EdD)

Chair

Steve Smith

Keywords

online ministry, digital transformation, digital ministry, dissertation-in- praxis

Disciplines

Education | Religion

Abstract

In the evolving landscape of modern religious engagement, digital platforms offer churches various opportunities to enhance their worship experiences. Still, many churches find it difficult to integrate digital tools into their ministry in the digital age. They are experiencing challenges incorporating online worship services and digital outreach activities while maintaining their core values. This dissertation-in-praxis examines the development of an online ministry at a local church struggling to adapt successfully to digital transformation. The ministry developed sought to supplement the physical gathering already occurring at the church. The online ministry aimed to ensure greater accessibility, spiritual nourishment, and community engagement. The study is grounded in theoretical, thematic, and theological frameworks emphasizing the need for digital transformation in churches and other faith-based organizations. Key stakeholders include the church leadership and congregants, who were vital to the study by helping the candidate and his team implement the program and evaluate its success. The conclusions drawn from this dissertation-in-praxis can be valuable to the growing body of knowledge of digital ecclesiology, providing useful insights into how churches can successfully integrate digital technology to enhance their ministry. The study can also provide a guideline for church leadership seeking to incorporate digital ministry into their organizations, ensuring that faith is relevant and can still be accessed to impact lives in an increasingly digital world.

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