Earlier in the summer I read a blog post, Federal Court: Online Worship is Not a Church, that indicated that an organization that primarily holds internet and radio worship services does not meet the IRS criteria for a church. The United Methodist Reporter had a follow up blog post – Church: What’s your definition?
I do not find this ruling to be particularly bothersome. Resurrection Online is clearly part of a congregation that has a physical presence, which I believe is important. Right now, we just have the opportunity to worship online and do not have other opportunities to grow in faith and live into community. Resurrection Online will develop opportunities to know, love and serve God and will continue to be an important tool for beginning or continuing one’s connection to a God through a church community.
Rev. Andrew Conard 