When describing the style of a worship service, the modern day church has often used two descriptions: traditional or contemporary. And when one talks about the use of visual media, it is assumed that video belongs in the camp of the contemporary service.
But that perception is quickly changing. Visual media is no longer considered a style but -- like music -- it can be traditional or contemporary, simply giving the pastor another tool with which to communicate.
With the ever-increasing production of worship video products over the last 10 years, churches now have a wide range of visual media to choose from. Video is no longer just a resource for the youth minister but also the preacher.
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In this 2007 survey of video resources for preaching, we will be focusing mainly on resources that are available on the internet through immediate download (which covers most of the products available). No longer does a pastor have to buy a complete video series to find a few usable resources. The individual download gives a person the ability to buy only what they need. But maybe most important, it allows instant access, 24 hours a day.
Before we begin, let’s briefly talk about the three main types of worship video available which are sermon illustrations or mini-movies, motions / background loops and countdowns. It is important to know these three categories because it will allow you to search quickly through the thousands of available videos.
1) Sermon Illustrations or Mini-Movies
These are short videos that communicate a message through a wide-range of approaches -- from drama to documentaries, animation, man on the street interviews and everything else in between. They can be serious or humorous and focus on everything from current events to biblical themes.
2) Motions
These are loopable videos, which mean they seamlessly repeat themselves and can be used as stand-alone videos or backgrounds for text. The majority of motion videos being produced are geared toward the worship experience and are mainly produced without audio. These can be an excellent way to set a mood before or during a service. Preachers can also use them as a subtle on-going visual during the teaching time.
3) Countdowns
Countdown videos are a friendly and creative way to let the congregation or group know when the service or meeting is starting. They can be themed around a holiday, be humorous or set the mood for worship.
Video “Superstores”
Our first list of visual resources are the companies that provide a one-stop shop in the area of worship media. These websites would be the “Amazon.com’s” of the church media world. While all of these sites typically have similar content they do not all provide the same user experience.
