[140] Real church in digital space with J.J. Warren

We’re borrowing an important interview from the MyCom Podcast. Host Ryan Dunn talked with Rev. J.J. Warren about what defines a church and how J.J. is putting the definition into practice through the Church of the Young Prophets. Drawing from his theological background and experiences with the Young Prophets Collective, J.J. discusses the evolution of virtual worship spaces, the significance of platforms like Discord and Instagram, and the challenges of maintaining boundaries in digital ministry.

In this episode:
(00:00) Interview on digital church from Mycom podcast.
(06:15) Reexamining the church’s role in the pandemic.
(07:46) Online connections require time, energy, emotions. Church inheritance.
(13:13) Questioning if online platforms foster authentic relationships.
(16:51) Global young people shaping the church’s future.
(18:33) Church practices adapting online during pandemic in Philippines.
(22:50) Find agency and safety at Church of the Young Prophets.
(26:17) Gather Town provides intimacy and private spaces.
(29:13) Virtual office hours across multiple time zones.
(33:06) Access the Gather campus through website link.
(34:44) Proximity and intimacy.
(39:00) Online church community fosters intentional connections.
(42:33) Setting boundaries between online church and personal life.

For episode notes and more visit umc.org/compass