Interconnect Through Technologies

As one of our five FAITH goals, we want to interconnect our growing fellowship through new technologies. Stepping up to help fulfill this task are members from our online campus, who are utilizing conferencing software to host Regional Online Meet-Ups.

The strategy to further connect Saddleback’s online campus came about as members began to ask for ways to simultaneously watch services with other people in their regions. Making up Saddleback’s online community are 16,000 people watching weekly messages across multiple platforms including mobile, TV, tablet, and computer.

Other than joining a small group, there wasn’t a way to connect people locally. In an effort to meet this need, Saddleback Online Pastor, Jay Kranda launched Regional Online Meet-Ups using group conferencing software.

“I have 1,600 groups around the world, with 40% of the people meeting online and 60% meeting in person,” says Pastor Jay. “This is an opportunity to connect people with groups locally, grow groups in the process, and get more people into groups by finding people who live close by.”

Led by a volunteer online host, Online Regional Meet-ups are launched through Zoom, a video conferencing program for online meetings and group chats. At a designated time, members within a certain city, state, or country can log in and connect with other Saddleback members. During the online conversation, members can introduce themselves to the group, share where they’re locally based, and discuss options to meet in person. This process often leads to online groups setting up designated times and locations to host in-person Meet-Ups.

Once the group exceeds 25 people, it moves from a “Meet-Up” to a “Gathering,” where people can join in one larger venue, similar to Saddleback microsites. Although still in beta testing, the Gatherings are gaining momentum after successful events in Oakland, San Francisco, and Temecula. Drawing up to 110 people per Gathering, there are tentative plans to make these monthly events. By the end of October, Online Meet-Ups will have reached 10 U.S. states and three countries including Mexico, England, and South Africa.

The vision is to eventually host Online Meet-Ups in every state, and bring members through a system of online–in person–small group, in an effort to help them fulfill the 5 Purposes. Through the process, online viewers are connected with local people, another step toward building community for Christ. These mightly steps are just the beginning! Technology is also being used to train leaders at Saddleback. 

Small Groups Pastor, Karo Ku is currently training 27 people in the Leadership Training 1 using online sessions. After sending a video link, he has the member watch the first module of training before responding with notes, questions, and insights. After receiving their responses, he interacts with them and then moves them onto the next module.

“When we provide the tools that connect people, relationships are formed, community happens, and it just grows organically,” says Pastor Jay. “Through Online Meet-Ups, we can be a community for those who live far away, and reach those who are un-churched and unconnected.”

Learn more about Regional Online Meet-Ups in your city by visiting their Facebook Group page.