Podcasting raises church attendance

Church leaders say internet downloads, as well as podcasts have encouraged more people to attend church services. Online sermons from the Bridge Chapel Christian church in Liverpool have led to a surge in worshippers attending in person, according to a report from the Daily Post. The progressive church focuses on traditional teachings of the Bible for all cultures, and has had close to 600 people tuning into weekly updates. "Large numbers of new people are coming down to the church and joining our congregation simply because of the internet downloads and podcasts," said Steve Evans, who runs the podcast service for the church.

"The sermons are playing a huge role in attracting people of all ages, especially youngsters who are searching for their spirituality," Evans said. "People talk about church numbers falling, but those who are making efforts to connect with people through things like podcasting are experiencing rapid growth."

The Reverend Dr. Shannon Ledbetter of St Mary's Church in Knowsley Village, believes the iPod could revolutionize worshipping for both the young and the old.

""For the elderly and housebound, this is a fantastic [opportunity]--all you need to do is fix them up with an iPod and they're good to go," Ledbetter said. "For the young also, there is so much information out there, which can help to answer their questions about their faith."

The former university theology lecturer, originally from New York, believes that the iPod won't increase the temptation for worshippers to miss church, according to the report.

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