Going beyond Mass: Getting the most out of your live stream

Jul 8, 2020 by

Katie Cerni

So, you recently began live streaming...

It's a powerful tool that has endless benefits for your Catholic parish, school, or organization. So why is it that we usually only live stream Mass and liturgy services?

If you’ve recently jumped into the world of live streaming, we’re excited to share a few ways for you to build a robust live streaming plan that goes beyond Mass and connects with others like never before.

3 benefits of live streaming for
 your ministry

1

Live streaming connects loved ones both near and far

There are many unforgettable moments that happen in your ministry. But sometimes, loved ones may not be able to take part in special events in person. Time, distance, and money can all serve as regular roadblocks that prevent physical attendance.

Consider offering an option to live stream any of the following events to ensure that everyone, no matter their location, can join in on the gathering.

• Special Masses + Liturgies - Families who are unable to attend can still watch their loved ones celebrate important faith milestones, like First Communion or Confirmation.
• Weddings + Ceremonies - Invite elderly relatives or distant friends to share in the joy and witness special wedding Masses or vow renewals.
• Funerals - Those who are unable to travel can be assured that they will still be able to join in prayer with others for their loved ones.

2

Live streaming expands your mission and outreach

Traditionally, ministry and outreach is accomplished in a face-to-face setting. However, competing schedules and work-life balance can get in the way. If meeting in person is nearly impossible, a live-streamed event can allow people to participate from anywhere and still feel like a part of the community.

Here are a few ideas for different events that are traditionally attended, but could reach even more people if it were live-streamed as well:

• Parish missions + catechesis - For those who have conflicting schedules, an archived live stream will allow them to grow and learn with the parish, even though they couldn’t attend the actual event.
• School events - Encourage students and parents to tune in for the daily morning announcements or be sure families can participate in graduation ceremonies from wherever they live.
• Fundraisers - Think about hosting a live-streamed concert or gala in order to continue your fundraising traditions, but with a new and exciting twist!

Pro tip: With eCatholic LIVE, you’re able to archive all of your live-streamed events so people can come back at any time and participate at their convenience!

3

Use live streaming to raise additional funds

It’s not a bad thing to approach ministry with a business mindset. While live streaming, with the correct equipment, is a real investment, the benefit will likely outweigh the cost in the long run.

By offering your live streaming as a paid service, families (or anyone who would like to purchase the service) could sign up for a flat fee - let’s say $250 - and receive the following items:

• Live-streamed event - This could be weddings, funerals, award ceremonies; anything that people would like to share with others who cannot attend.
• Private landing page - Only the people with the correct website link which you provide will be able to watch and see the live stream as it’s happening.
• High-quality digital video recording - Meaning the special occasion can be re-lived and shared again and again.

Imagine how your organization could benefit from some additional funds in the budget! Perhaps someone on staff could have a raise, or money can be invested in new ministry programs or outreach. The possibilities are endless!
 

Live streaming can be used as a tool that connects people in the most unlikely ways; consider using one of the suggestions above to get the most out of your live streaming service! Or, comment below with your ideas and suggestions on how to make live streaming at your parish, school, or organization a great experience for everyone!