Episcopal Church Foundation Vestry Papers - for leading congregations

“We see God in you!” proclaim the people of St. Peter’s Episcopal Church in Lebanon, a small city in rural central Indiana. This “people of prayer uniting in one Spirit” live the Gospel through many ministries rooted in heritage, such as a community garden and bee hives, and even the ancient tradition of the labyrinth.

But something modern is buzzing here too. It’s posted on the door leading into the sanctuary: a QR Code. Whatever gave them that idea?

Vicar Christopher R. Beasley says it really isn’t all that revolutionary. QR codes are seen everywhere these days, conveniently providing additional information to anyone with a smart phone or tablet. For instance, museums post QR codes loaded with facts about exhibits.

So in 2014, Fr. Christopher placed at St. Peter’s door a QR Code linking to the bulletin for the day. People can scan the code as they enter to download the entire service, including liturgy and hymns. He says the reaction has been positive as people see that technology can be seamlessly integrated into worship.

“We tend to think it is intrusive or takes away from the dignity of the liturgy. It really doesn’t. People are not fumbling with inserts, prayer books and hymnals. Young people quickly adapt to technology. And some older members of the congregation say, ‘If you’ll show me, I’ll be happy to use it,’” says Fr. Christopher, explaining that on a tablet, the bulletin’s font can be as large as people may need. St. Peter’s is now seeking donations of used tablet devices to have available for worshippers who do not own one.

Last October on “Social Media Sunday,” St. Peter’s used an iPad to live stream their worship service using the Periscope app. 

“Without any publicity, we had 119 people watch. Did we get any new people from it? Not that I’m aware of. But we weren’t using it for membership growth. We just wanted to share what we love. We are exploring how we can do this regularly, particularly for parishioners who may be home-bound. It’s important that as we look to be a church of the 21^[1] century we find ways to integrate technology into liturgy and life, while respecting the dignity of worship,” Fr. Christopher explains.

St. Peter’s is a small congregation with average Sunday attendance of about 35 people. But with technology embraced by their part-time, bi-vocational Vicar, they are reaching out to spread the Gospel and share news about their lively parish.

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