The COVID-19 technological determinism for mainstream churches: Implications and justification for adoption

Abstract

Historically, mainstream churches held a firm stance on technology adoption, as the leadership of the churches felt that it would interfere with the church’s system of beliefs and operations. During the COVID-19 pandemic period, the church found itself at a crossroads, where the conventional way of church operations was altered and technological tests crept in. This paper explores how COVID-19 exposed the church's technological weaknesses and their implications, situating the justification for adoption. Guided by technological determinism theory, the paper examines the implications of external forces, such as COVID-19, playing a role in reshaping the technological landscape in mainstream churches. The study deployed a qualitative research approach to review literature from secondary sources like pastoral letters, journal articles and church reports and documents. Findings of the study reveal that COVID-19 exposed a state of technological unpreparedness, forced technology adoption, the digital divide and theological and ecclesiological tensions within mainstream churches. Additionally, while technology was initially seen as an enemy to the church, implications drawn from the COVID-19 pandemic justified that the right use of technology is imperative for the church. The study concludes that COVID-19 highlighted the technological gaps that the mainstream church ought to address and embrace continued use of technology through a hybrid model that blends traditional approaches with technology. The study recommends that it is worthwhile for mainstream church leaders to ensure that their training is well conducted to enable effective use of digital platforms. Additionally, the church should endeavour to adopt a hybrid model of worship that blends digital tools with traditional practices. Finally, mainstream churches should refocus on strengthening the digital infrastructure to address the accessibility gaps exposed by the COVID-19 pandemic.