How social media transformed a fading congregation with Caleb Lines

We’re kicking off season 8! In this episode, we have the privilege of sitting down with Caleb Lines, a pastor who has led his congregation through a remarkable transformation. Caleb shares the challenges his church faced, from vandalism to financial instability, and how they overcame these obstacles through innovative strategies, including a strong social media presence and creative repurposing of church facilities. Join us as we uncover the power of digital outreach, alternative income streams, and the unwavering commitment to community engagement.

Rev. Dr. Caleb J. Lines is senior pastor at University Christian Church in San Diego, CA. He is the author of The Great Digital Commission: Embracing Social Media for Church Growth and Transformation (Cascade Books, 2021), which quickly reached #1 on Amazon’s New Releases for Church Growth.  His views on the intersection of religion and public life have been featured in diverse local, national, and international publications.  Caleb is also the Co-Executive Director and board member of Progressive Christianity.org, treasurer of the national board of Jubilee USA Network, and Co-Host of the popular podcast “The Moonshine Jesus Show“.

In this episode:
(00:00) “Digital parish offers innovative strategies for ministry.”
(05:48) Started with minimal staff, emphasized digital ministry.
(08:58) Promoting church online, sharing, and engaging community.
(13:17) Social media targets different audiences, builds community.
(14:02) Church authenticity problem hinders religious affiliation decline.
(19:25) Practicing and advocating for social justice online.
(22:57) Think through branding, consistent messaging, diverse content.
(27:17) Assessing and improving church finances for survival.
(29:22) Underutilized church space leads to strategic planning.
(32:05) Considered options, sold land to housing developer.
(35:21) Supporting ministry through alternative income streams.
(41:09) Adaptation led to creativity and dynamic worship.
(42:11) Finding joy in ministry, pursuing dreams.

For more episodes and notes: www.resourceumc.org/digital-parish