PowerPoint presentations are replacing more outdated audio visual equipment that many churches have counted on for the past several decades. The older equipment functioned, but wasn't efficient, nor could users take advantage of today's online technology. For a reasonable investment and some limited training, churches can modernize their visual presentations in order to increase the effect of the message, and to retain members and draw new people in.
One good example of modernizing on-screen presentations using PowerPoint is infusing the use backgrounds for lyrics to worship music. Photos, symbols and clipart add to the feel of the music and the ambiance of the message. In general, PowerPoint presentations helps set a specific mood and aid in the visual process.
PowerPoint is the number one presentation program in the world for a reason. It is one of the simplest computer programs to learn, and the results have great impact. New users with a basic understanding of the program, and with little or no design skills, can create strong presentations, especially if they have access to great photos and art.
In addition to on-screen slide presentations, PowerPoint lets users build and print materials for handouts, notes and outlines to sermon or meeting messages. Still, it is the on-screen presentations alone that allow the full range of PowerPoint's features and benefits.
To get started with a PowerPoint program in church, it is important to do some research. The following are suggestions for getting started:
- Find out what are other churches are doing. Don't be afraid to make a few phone calls.
- Learn about the limitations, dynamics and other specifics of the church sanctuary.
- Do a cost analysis on the purchase of a PowerPoint system. This includes hardware and software and may require that you visit web sites or look through product catalogs such as "Religious Product News."
- Gather a team of potential volunteers. The team should consist of those who can put the PowerPoint presentations together, and those who are willing to operate the system during church services.
For the most part, PowerPoint slides should contain brief, concise, descriptive phrases that will help people remember the presentation. Combined with visually interesting backgrounds and Scriptures, the most simplistic PowerPoint presentations can send a strong message.