Upgrade Your Tech: 5 Smart Ways Churches Can Embrace Modern Tools
Let's face it—technology isn't going away. It continues to evolve, and whether we like it or not, the church in Canada must learn to navigate and embrace this shift. Thankfully, technology doesn't have to be intimidating or overly expensive. It can enhance worship, improve outreach, and even help build community when used intentionally.
Here are five practical and budget-conscious ways to upgrade your church tech today.
1. From PowerPoint to Professional Presentation Software
If your church still uses PowerPoint for song lyrics, it's time for an upgrade. Presentation software designed specifically for churches makes life easier for both tech teams and worship leaders. These platforms store lyrics, allow dynamic background changes, and support seamless transitions between verses and choruses.
Top options include:
EasyWorship
Worship Tools Presenter (Free)
Worship Tools is a great entry-level choice that provides excellent functionality without the price tag of the others. A good presentation platform will make your services smoother and more engaging.
2. Upgrade to a Digital Mixing Console
Audio quality can make or break a worship service. If you're still running an analog board, now is the time to consider going digital. Digital consoles provide greater control, built-in effects, and presets that make sound checks faster and more consistent.
A solid, budget-friendly option is the Behringer X32, which is widely used and well-supported. It's scalable, easy to use, and perfect for mid-sized congregations.
Looking to learn more about church audio? ChurchFront is a valuable resource offering tutorials, gear reviews, and affordable AV strategies tailored for churches.
3. Simplify Your Live Streaming Setup
Streaming your services online doesn't need to be overly complicated. Most smaller churches can create a quality livestream with a good camera, an audio feed, and a simple switcher.
Enter the ATEM Mini Pro from Blackmagic Design. It's an all-in-one solution that allows you to integrate your video, audio, and presentation feed and stream directly to platforms like YouTube or Facebook.
This small but powerful device simplifies your workflow and eliminates the need for expensive, complex broadcasting gear.
4. Create Professional Graphics with Canva
First impressions matter, and in the digital world, design is often your first interaction with someone new. Canva is an incredible tool that helps you design eye-catching graphics for sermon slides, social media, events, and announcements.
The best part? Canva Pro is free for eligible non-profits, including churches. With thousands of templates and intuitive drag-and-drop tools, your church can create professional visuals without hiring a designer.
5. Get Found with Google My Business
Even if your church doesn't have a website, people are still searching for you online. That's where Google My Business comes in. It allows your church to show up on Google Maps and search results with important info like service times, events, photos, and reviews.
Claiming your Google profile is free, easy, and vital for outreach. In fact, 99% of people search online before visiting a new church—don't miss the opportunity to make a good digital first impression.
Final Thoughts: Embrace the Shift
Technology can feel overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be. Start small. Choose one or two areas to focus on and grow from there. These five upgrades can make a significant impact on your church's ability to serve, connect, and reach your community.
Whether you're a small congregation or a growing ministry, there's always room to improve how you use tech to share the Gospel.
So, how have you upgraded your tech this year? What's next on your list? Let us know—we'd love to hear how your church is embracing innovation for the Kingdom.
John works as an Effectiveness Coach with the ABNWT District of the PAOC. He is a strategic thinker who has pastored urban and rural churches, traditional and on the cutting edge. He is a passionate evangelist who is committed to rapid church growth by creating churches that unchurched people love to attend. With his church planting, multi-service, multi-site, and church merger experience, he regularly trains leaders, coaches church planters, and helps other pastors lead their churches into new growth.