A NEW ERA OF DIGITAL MISSIONS

The pandemic has upended the world. What has changed for missions? 

Most short-term trips have been cancelled. Many workers have difficulty returning to the field after a home visit. Even after years of preparation, some new workers cannot move overseas. 

But disruption leads to new ways of doing things. Digital technology has been getting us through the pandemic.  Zoom and other social media connect many workers with their colleagues, clients and students in lockdown as well as their supporters back home.

In west Asia, the university where Mitch and Zoe teach went online last spring.  They came back to the U.S. for vaccination.  But Mitch continues to deliver classes live online despite the time zone difference, while Zoe oversees the construction of a simulation lab remotely, and prepares for the launch of a new program later this year.

In Central Asia, the pandemic is drawing the missionary community closer.  When a family falls ill, others workers across organizations would rally to support them. There is also more prayer and fellowship as gathering online is much easier than fighting traffic to meet in person.  

Inspired by nationwide online prayer meetings in East Asia, GLS associates Bob and Sabrina invited other workers to join them to share the needs of Central Asia with churches in the US and East Asia.  It was a moving experience when believers in different time zones united to intercede for this region.

In East Asia, society and church alike need good leaders.  GLS has brought together a team of seasoned  executives to offer online training in faith-based servant leadership for young professionals to serve both the business and ministry sectors.

This is the new era of digital missions.  Online instruction, discussion, and even counseling have become the new normal.  Many believers could help to meet needs around the world without having to board a plane. 

Digital missionaries cannot replace the incarnational presence of long-term workers among the unreached. But together with short-term workers, they could bring additional resources to take the timeless story of God’s love to our world. 

If you have creative ideas to use your talents in digital missions, we would love to hear from you!  Contact us at digital@goliveserve.org.