NASHVILLE — To help churches stay connected and minister to their members during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, Back to the Bible is offering a free digital service. The BttB.App (https://www.bttb.app/) platform offers churches the ability to integrate their existing websites with various functions such as coordination of online groups and classes, social engagement between members, live streaming as well as taped sermons, manage email communication with congregants, among other uses.

The BttB app provides multiple ways for congregations to connect digitally, drawing congregants together for worship, teaching, and fellowship. The livestream feature integrates with twelve existing services including Facebook Live, YouTube Live, Zoom, Join.Me, Vimeo, TikTok, Twitch, SurveyMonkey, among others.

As an additional free resource, The Center for Bible Engagement’s (CBE) is offering churches a free well-being survey (https://www.centerforbibleengagement.org/churches) for their own congregations. The survey, which can be embedded into any existing website or shared via email or social media, provides pastors key information about their church members such as how they are holding up physically and emotionally during the crisis, what they are struggling with most, and what the church can do to help them. CBE’s research director, Dr. Arnie Cole, notes that effective ministry starts by discovering where people are spiritually.

“This is a good time to remember that the New Testament meaning of ‘church’ never referenced a building,” says Cole.

“Rather, it referred to the believers themselves—people who often met every day. We have the same need to connect daily now, and these resources will help churches stay connected during this unprecedented time of social distancing. Because we know many churches are being hurt by the financial crisis this pandemic is causing, these are 100% free for them to use.”

About Back to the Bible

Founded in 1939 as a radio ministry, Back to the Bible is now a global leader in digital discipleship. Their efforts have led people to engage with the Bible in over 180 countries, and their resources have been used by over 156,000 congregants in the U.S. Back to the Bible’s Center for Bible Engagement has used research initiatives and peer-reviewed studies to develop discipleship tools such as goTandem and the BttB.App. In six months, 83% of users of the goTandem app move from zero interaction with the Bible to engaging the Bible four or more times per week. For further information visit www.backtothebible.org.

CONTACT: Gina Adams, 615-776-1590

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