While some companies try to cash in with virtual reality,
others are thinking about saving your soul. Most churches haven't set
up outposts in virtual worlds, but some future-focused Christian leaders
are already imagining how tech like the Oculus Rift could change what
it means to be part of a congregation.
Many
communities have come together via the internet, but most Christian
churches still rely on face-to-face meetings. That means many people get
left out, including ones who live in remote areas, or are confined to
their homes due to health issues. That's why
Rev. Christopher Benek of the First Presbyterian Church of Ft. Lauderdale in Florida
thinks that VR will make churches more accessible and popular.
Benek thinks that as technology like Oculus Rift becomes more developed,
immersive, and available to the general public, we may soon be able to
easily develop virtual worship and Christian education experiences. This
would be a great asset to the church universal, as it will enable the
infirm, homebound, and potentially even the poor to participate from
afar regardless of their personal mobility or lack of affordable
transportation ...
Congregants
and pastors will be able to visit and pray with greater numbers of
people more often. Small groups will be able to meet more frequently,
even at great distances. The way that we currently do care and
discipleship will radically change as will our expectations as to what
it means to participate in those aspects of the church.
Strap on your goggles and pray.
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