Jason Steffen, worship leader and administrative assistant at West Fargo Flame of Faith UMC, recently wrote a grant for technology upgrades. Photos courtesy of Flame of Faith Facebook page.

"When you invite someone to your church, the majority of guests want to know what they’re getting themselves into. They are directed to webpages, social media, and video hosting sites. While most will skip over wordy theological statements and page after page of “what we believe”, they will definitely take a look at the video for last week’s service," writes Janson Steffan, who serves as the worship leader and adminstrative assistant for West Fargo Flame of Faith UMC. 

Boxes of equipment for the Flame of Faith technology upgrades thanks to funding from a Breakthrough Ministry grant.

Equipment has been arriving at Flame of Faith in West Fargo, North Dakota. The congregation is  a recipient of a Breakthrough Ministry grant to fund upgrades to their technology that will enhance the worship experience. The technology enhancement will happen in phases. The first phase, which is underway, will intensify the worship atmosphere, and extend video outreach. The hope is to increase video quality and audio fidelity, whether you attend in-person or participate elsewhere via live video streaming.

"By investing in quality audio and video systems, more people will be attracted to services and events at Flame of Faith. Worshippers will also have acess to an assistive listening system for those in the congregation with hearing needs," writes Steffan.

The multiphase technology will create a worship space that is more inviting and accommodating for people, no matter their visual or audio needs. Video equipment will  include a large screen for the back of the sanctuary, to allow those close to the front or at a side angle, a chance to view the liturgy and lyrics. Equipment needed for live streaming is being added. 

"It will improve worship and the quality of video to simultaneously broadcast, providing the community and the entire world with another opportunity to encounter Jesus and strengthen their personal relationship with Him," Janson writes in the application for funds. 

Do you want your church to reach its maximum potential? Breakthrough Ministry grants are available to any church. Funding for outreach ministries, church-school partnerships, young adult-campus ministry, culture of call, technology and hunger projects are all available by applying online before April 30th.