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High-Tech Worship?  Using Presentational Technologies Wisely (Baker, 2004)

CICW Connection
The Calvin Institute of Christian Worship commissioned this publication as part of a three year initiative on technology use in worship. In the summer of 2002, we gathered a group of 20 pastors, congregational leaders, media experts, and worship experts for a consultation on current use of technology. That consultation generated the basic contours of this publication. In the spring of 2003, we sponsored the research of Steven Koster on media use in West Michigan congregations. Finally, our Calvin Symposium on Worship 2004 included over 10 presenters on aspects of media use. This book is the unofficial manifesto of all this programming, describing an approach to technology that is open, but discerning. Read related story.

This book was recently translated into Chinese and published with a new cover.

Description
Many churches use high-tech tools such as videos and PowerPoint presentations in their worship services. But without wisdom, those tools can turn their services more into entertainment than worship. How can churches use technology to effectively communicate meaning? How can technology be adopted to help people connect with God and each other to foster authentic worship?

Written by nationally known communications expert Quentin J. Schultze, High-Tech Worship? takes a careful look at these issues, giving readers practical guidance on the wise use of technology in their churches. An excellent tool for profitable classroom discussion.

Author
Quentin J. Schultze (Ph.D., University of Illinois) has authored or coauthored several previous books, including Internet for Christians and Habits of the High-Tech Heart, and hundreds of articles on media topics. He serves as professor of communication arts and sciences at Calvin College.

Interview
Listen to an interview with Quentin Schultze about high-tech worship on "Stateside with Charity Nebbe" (originally broadcast August 12, 2005; used by permission of Michigan Radio).

Endorsements
"Church leaders need to hear ... Schultze's call for balance and wisdom in the use of presentation technologies in worship. I applaud Schultze's clear encouragement for liturgical wisdom."
—Eileen D. Crowley, author of Liturgical Art for a Media Culture

"[A] great aid in reassessing my own prejudiced view.... I am impressed with both the warnings given and the inviting encouragement."
—Doug Lawrence, Minister of Worship, Menlo Park (California) Presbyterian Church

"What a joy to read! A masterful presentation carefully advising worship leaders to allow the Bible, theology, liturgy, and tradition to determine technological use in worship, rather than vice versa: a message greatly needed in the churches today."
—Ed Seely, Ministry Resource Center, Calvin College

"This is a delightful read. It is clear that Schultze's views are grounded in sound observations, reality, and extensive personal experience."
—Dr. Paul E. Detterman, Calvin Presbyterian Church, Louisville, Kentucky

"In High-Tech Worship? Schultze manages to cut a path between rejection of technology on the one hand and excessive use on the other. Technology, he says, should be adapted to worship, not the other way around. His advice is both a corrective and a guideline for technology users."
—Robert Webber, Myers Professor of Ministry, Northern Baptist Seminary

"Quentin Schultze treats worship with reverence and technology with respect. His careful and attentive writing on these juxtaposed concerns is required reading for all of us who lead congregations in worshiping God these days. Essential and much needed wisdom."
—Eugene Peterson, author of The Message

"Schultze demonstrates again why he is so revered as a master of everything to do with communication and technology. How wise and necessary is this short and mighty work!"
—Cornelius Plantinga, Jr., president and professor of systematic theology, Calvin Theological Seminary

"Quentin Schultze has offered a topography of the electronic landscape that lays ahead for churches. Evenhanded, clear and direct, Schultze offers a helpful tool for pastors, worship committees and building committees as they face the questions of worship in the twenty-first century."
—Dr. Todd Johnson, Dean of the Chapel, North Park Theological Seminary

Reviews
"Quentin Schultze ...has written a thoughtful, clear and helpful introduction to the subject of using electronic projections in worship. High Tech Worship? Using Presentational Technologies Wisely is filled with probing questions, practical suggestions and pointed anecdotes about what really happens in churches as they attempt to utilize new forms of technology."
—David Benjamin, EthicsDaily.com

"Schultze is probably one of the most balanced writers I have read on this subject. ... While I appreciate and recommend this book, I especially liked two chapters: "Corporate Worship and Technology" and "Avoiding Quick-Fix Techniques." ... No matter where you or your church may come down on the use of technology, I believe it would be a valuable exercise to read and discuss Schultze's book with local leadership."
—Charles Dunahoo, Equip for Ministry

"Schultze ... is neither a cheerleader for technology nor a mindless opponent; rather, he helps church leaders think through the issues and options for themselves. This little volume is an essential read for today's pastor. "
—PreachingNow Book of the Month

Press release from Calvin College
Book information from Baker Books