Current News
A Global Classroom
WME’s strength lies in our commitment to empowering others.
Through virtual training and digital technology,
information and resources are more easily shared around the world.
Greetings! My name is Dan Griswold, and I’m a pastor in Charleston, SC as well as a member of The Order of the FLAME, a group through World Methodist Evangelism (WME) that encourages and mentors young clergy as they lead and grow as mission evangelists within their communities.
Recently I had the opportunity to participate in a virtual seminar with WME on the topic of faith-sharing in the virtual space. All over the world, people are grappling with the idea of how to connect virtually, and if it is actually possible. I have been using the virtual space for many years.
As the son of a software engineer who worked for a computer company, I don’t remember a time when I wasn’t surrounded by technology. When the internet became accessible, the first website I visited was Gamepro.com, where I learned about chat rooms and how gamers around the globe stayed connected. Being a young Christian who wanted to share the love of Jesus with everyone I met, I soon began to converse about my life of faith with others in between conversations about games and hobbies.
Technology is ever evolving and the way we connect and evangelize has changed dramatically as virtual worlds are becoming fully integrated into a near seamless union with our physical reality. While it may be uncomfortable for those still learning current trends to reach others for Christ in virtual environments, I am convinced that without connections online, the church will see greater declines in future seekers being welcomed into the path of discipleship.
Believe it or not, for many, virtual relationships tend to be where people meet these days; virtual relationships drive real-world relationships. It’s not an “either-or”. For most people, esp. young people, there is no difference between the two – they interlock with one another.
It was a joy for me to participate in a seminar with WME and the Moscow Methodist Seminary to speak on the topic of creating and experiencing online worlds for evangelism. I’ve been fascinated by Russian culture and language since middle School, and have been following and praying for the Seminary in Moscow on Facebook for three years.
If you are interested in hearing my talk, click here.
The question and answer time was wonderful and life giving for me to be a part of a global effort to reach people for the life Jesus brings. My hope is that the conversation bears much fruit and many receive the fire of the Spirit to go and spread the Good News, wherever one is and wherever God calls them.
World Methodist Evangelism is proud to work with the Moscow Seminary to offer these recorded conference videos on evangelism and mission. Though the event has passed, you can still access great content! Register now to access the English language material.
Witnessing to Christ in Times of Change Video Access