Internet Tools

Skype - Video conferencing with Missionaries

There are much more applications that you could use Skype for, but this seems to be the most popular for churches.  

Skype is great because it is free, can be on any platform (Mac or Windows), and can do audio, video, or instant messaging.

Here is an idea to use it to stay in contact with your missionaries and keep them before your people:

1. Download Skype, and talk your missionary into doing the same.  (Good chance he already has it, it’s great for communication with home.)
2. Put Skype on the computer that you use for media in the services.
3. Contact the missionary during a service and throw a video of him up on the screen.  Have him tell you what is going on on the field.  Ask him questions.  Have him show you around.  Whatever - it is all live! (of course he will need a camera hooked up to his computer.  If he is smart he will already have a mac that has it built in:)

If you are a pastor, or anyone really, use this free tool to be a friend to your missionaries, even outside of services!  You will have a much better idea of what their life is like over their presentation in your church every 4 years.