Wired Jesus Podcast

As I write this I find myself at Bowling Green State University at our Synod Assembly – the annual gathering of representatives from our 183 congregations in NW Ohio to talk about ministry among our congregation and in our denomination, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. Generally, not much exciting happens here other than seeing friends and celebrating some of the good things going on. Here are the links to our Northwestern Ohio Synod and the ELCA.

I was asked to do two work shops on the Emerging Church and Digital Technology, so I got to introduce people to postmodern culture and the joys of podcasting. We can be a little like “Mayberry” up here – a little rural, a little removed, even though we are flanked by Cleveland, Detroit and Chicago all within 3 hours or less. But had a nice crowd for my first session and folks are genuinely interested in learning how to talk to postmoderns, particularly the youth in their congregations. My advice is simple – make the effort to understand their language and culture and give them the space, time, and cash to do it on their own terms – their own worship service, their own language, their music – and commit to walk the spiritual journey with them, even when you don’t understand their way.

The high point so far has been the music by Ken Medema. If you have never heard of Ken, he is a master of musical improvisation and a deeply spiritual songwriter. He is a regular at many denominational youth gatherings with his high energy style but also his contemplative lyrics. He is a rare musician worth your time to check out, both his Christian material and jazz CDs. You can find his web site here. He travels widely and if he is in your area, check him out. His schedule and downloads can be found at the web site as well.

I better look like I’m paying attention again. later.

If you haven’t found Frank Barnako’s blog on blogging and podcasting, either through CBS Marketwatch or his own site, its worth checking out. One of his recent articles is on the discovery of the power of podcasting by churches. Using the term “Godcasting”, Barnako states that searches for religious podcasts are up by 355%. Too bad most churches are just applying modern mindsets to the new technology – information delivery of sermons, classes you can’t attend, inspirational speaking. I don’t think most Christians understand the power of podcasting as authentic community because they don’t get postmodern community (See my podcast #2 on Extreme Makeover: Home Edition as community).

The spiritual journey is going on, going digital, and some people are starting to notice. Cool.

Check out Frank’s site and learn how the mainstream is coming to deal with podcasting.