Podcasting packs the pews

Here is the original blog post on Church Marketing Sucks:

Who would have thought that broadcasting your sermons so people don't have to actually come to your church would instead make more people come to your church? Steve Evans of Bridge Chapel Christian church in Liverpool says podcasts work:

"Large numbers of new people are coming down to the church and joining our congregation simply because of the internet downloads and podcasts."

The sermons are playing a huge role in attracting people of all ages, especially youngsters who are searching for their spirituality.

"People talk about church numbers falling, but those who are making efforts to connect with people through things like podcasting are experiencing rapid growth."

Rev. Dr. Shannon Ledbetter of St Mary's Church in Knowsley Village (who appeared in the 1997 James Bond flick Tomorrow Never Dies, according to the article!?) doesn't think podcasting will encourage people to skip church:

"This will bring church numbers up, because people who tune in will want to experience the full spectrum of worship, the interaction with other parishioners, the singing of hymns and the experience of the building.

We wouldn't want people to rely solely on an iPod."

(link via Blogging Church )