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published: Friday, February 05, 2010
'Unplug to reconnect'
Minister urges congregation to set aside technology for a week
LARRY ELL
Staff Writer
Pastor Allen Speegle knows how to use technology to spread his message. While two video cameras followed and recorded his every word and movement, a large projector screen displayed scripture verses and video images.
However, his message Sunday to the congregation at Family Bible Church in Eustis was to consider taking a short leave of absence from the electronic world.
"I've got all the trinkets and toys, got an i-phone and all that stuff, so it's not anti any of that," Speegle said. "But I know families that build their lives totally around that and we're facing a generation that, if we're not very careful, their communication skills will be virtually non-existent."
To help enhance those communication skills, Speegle's challenge this week is "unplug to reconnect." Starting Monday, he's encouraging his congregation to spend two hours a night disconnected from all technology, including cell phones, music, computers and television. One of those hours is to be spent on quality family time, with the other hour focusing on changing self-defeating and limiting beliefs.
Wrapping up the unplugged week will involve a churchwide event, where members will be asked to ramp up their commitment by going 24 hours tech-free, from 10 p.m. Friday to 10 p.m. Saturday.
Even though weaning themselves from all their gadgets will likely be a tall order, the challenge seemed to be well-received by the congregation. Then again, they've become used to their pastor's creative approach to preaching. In the past he's delivered sermons with Survivor, Extreme Home Makeover and Super Bowl of Life themes.
"I think people are tired of church as usual," executive pastor Jill Windham said. "I think we need more stimulation as a society. We need more hands-on interactivity to make the truth that's in the Bible come alive. We try to incorporate something every week that's going to make them go home and say 'hmmmm, let me think about that.'"
Sometimes all it takes is a small spark to develop a burning passion. That's what leaders at Family Bible Church are hoping for -- a few meaningful hours that could provide fulfilling inspiration.
"I don't think it's gonna be a bolt of lightning, but a lot of people need to reconnect with their families," Speegle said. "Before God instituted the church he instituted the family. If we can get people to reconnect, and that's the only thing that happens, that would be success."
