WELSTech Video: Recent Episodes
WELS
For the 760th time, welcome to WELSTech, a podcast at the intersection of technology and ministry. This episode features a discussion of the dos and don’ts of church and school surveys. Also included is a new source for liturgical art, a deep dive into “Smart” Health, and a new vocabulary word – workslop! Eek!
The interview and discussionSurvey Best Practices – Martin and Sallie welcome Alycia Cameron, and she shares her experience with conducting surveys and how that applies to churches and schools. Listen for guidelines on whether you need a survey and the suggested length of a survey, plus much more.
- WELS AI Survey
- Survey Monkey
- Gamma Presentation Maker
- Fathom AI Notetaker
Ministry resourcePart 1 of Christ Through Us, WELS strategic plan: Culture
- Learn more from Forward in Christ
- Explore resources
Picks of the week* ELS Liturgical Year Artwork * Smart Health Comparison using Gemini Deep research
Community feedback
- Sora 2 is here – from OpenAI
- AI is creating ‘workslop’ and hindering productivity
- Generate the perfect headshot with Google Gemini – The full prompt
- Sallie and Mia gave it a try
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WELSTech is back with an unexpected AI buzz word discussion that’s a hot topic in schools right now – Academic Integrity. Jason and Rachel return bringing videos, gems, and flow to the podcast. Plus, there’s a new tech-enabled look at WELS 10-year strategic plan. Your earbuds are waiting!
The discussionAI using AI – Martin and Sallie are joined by Dr. Rachel Renno, Director of Academic Computing for Martin Luther College, and Jason Schmidt, Director of Technology for Oshkosh (WI) Area School District to discuss the other “AI,” academic integrity in an artificial intelligence world.
- Teachers got mad about a cheat button in Chrome. Now Google’s pausing it.
- Pangram
- Grammarly’s Authorship
- Sample Student AI usage policy for WELS Lutheran schools
- MLC AI Usage Guidelines
- Faculty
- Student
Ministry resource* Bible Lessons Media Resources
Picks of the week* Notebook LM Video Overview – Example * Google Gemini Storybook Gem – Example – featuring anime Jason & Rachel * What’s new in K-2 + Recent newsletter issue + Canva Teacher Planner Templates by Teach Cheat + Subscribe * Wispr Flow
Community feedback
- ChristThroughUs.net – Learn more about WELS 10-year strategic plan
Get involved* Add comments * Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net * Join the WELSTech community: + WELSTech Google Group + WELSTech on Facebook + WELSTech on Pinterest + WELSTech on Instagram * Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net * Contribute to the #WELSTech Twitter conversation * Follow us on Twitter – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper * Share with the Diigo group welstech
The first episode of the 2025-26 season of WELSTech is unlocked! Martin and Sallie kick off with a Lutheran-flavored AI theme for the season and share resources to assist with school AI policies. Sallie has a random pick of the week, and Martin shared Gmail keyboard shortcuts. All this and more. Let’s go!
The discussionA place of AI – Martin and Sallie kick off a new season of WELSTech under the theme AI: What does this mean? First up is a look at school guidelines and policies around AI. Feel free to make copies of the shared resource documents and edit them to meet the needs of your school.
- New AI resource page
- New shared Google Drive
- WELSTech Google Group AI label
Ministry Resource* Save the shortcut link to our WELSTech AI series – welstech.wels.net/ai
Picks of the week* RandomQuestionMaker.com * Gmail Keyboard Shortcuts
Community feedback & events* Solutions for managing multiple announcement screens – from the WELSTech Google Group
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How vulnerable is your church or school to hacking? On this episode of WELSTech learn why vigilant training on threat avoidance is important in ministry settings and find links to available (and many times free) resources to assist with those efforts. Sallie shares a family friendly YouTube channel and Martin has some hardware to detect those pesky leaks.
The discussion
“The single most hackable piece of any computer system is, unfortunately, the people.” – Cybersecurity Basics for Churches from Concordia Technology Solutions
The weakest link – Martin and Sallie share ideas regarding church and school digital security and ongoing training.
- WELSTech Google Group discussion
- KnowBe4
- Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA)
- Center for Development of Security Excellence (CDSE)
- SANS Institute
- National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) – free content
- Infosec
- CyberNut
- Identity Theft Sermon Introduction
Picks of the week* Ryan Trahan’s 50 States in 50 Days family-friendly YouTube series * Third Reality Water Leak Sensor
Next timeA new season of WELSTech begins
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The WELSTech summer tips and tricks keep coming with this week’s rundown of church marketing ideas courtesy of Grace Ungemach. Set a goal and see what changes may take place in your outreach efforts. Sallie’s got new hardware, Martin has a new Inbox, and WELS Intersections is talking about church communication guidelines. You don’t want to miss this jam-packed episode!
The discussionGet SMART – Martin and Sallie’s discussion springboards off of a recent newsletter article titled 10 SMART goals for church marketing by Grace Ungemach at lutheran.marketing. From avatars to Instagram, email opens to runways, you are sure to find at least one goal to adopt, personalize for your church or school, and learn from.
Picks of the week* Square payment processing and Square Reader * Trello Inbox
Community feedback & events Sample Church Communication Guide (WOW!) * ELS video series Do You Have a Pastor?*
Next timeOut tips & tricks summer series wrap-up
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Tune in to WELSTech 755 for a discussion on church social media graphics, including examples and templates to follow. Martin shares his latest gadget pick, plus we talk about a Facebook guide on branding your digital community.
The discussionWhy Social Media Graphics Matter – Martin and Sallie discuss the ins and outs of social media graphics, including keeping it simple, being consistent, using branding, and templating the designs.
- Designing Church Social Media Graphics 101 from Concordia Technology Solutions
- Example Instagram account from Illume Church (WELS), Seattle, WA
- How to create your own set of social media templates from Grace Ungemach’s lutheran.marketing weekly newsletter
- Example Canva template
Picks of the week* Canva Templates for Churches * Anker USB C Adapters
Community feedback & events* WELS Intersections on Facebook * Branding Your Community from Facebook
Next timeSee you in August for more tips & tricks!
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Tune in to WELSTech 754 for tips and tricks related to church photography. There’s also discussion regarding finding an icon for any need and the effect of AI on mission outreach. Plus the WELSTech Google Group is in the spotlight with lots of great input on the topic of cyber security training.
The discussionClick, click, click – Martin and Sallie discuss a recent blog post from Concordia Technology Solutions titled 10 Tips for Capturing Impactful Photos of Church Activities.
- From Microsoft Copilot AI – Sample Church Photo Release Form (PDF)
Picks of the week* The Noun Project * The Impact of AI on Missions
Community feedback & eventsRecent conversations in the WELSTech Google Group
- Cyber Security training recommendations
- KnowBe4
- National Initiative for Cybersecurity Careers and Studies (NICCS)
- InfoSec
- CyberNut
- Tech policy around a Called Working exit
Next timeMore tips & tricks to come!
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This week on WELSTech we reveal ways to write church announcements which get the word out on needed topics without being ignored by those you’re trying to reach. AI weaves itself throughout the conversation from personalized AI in picks of the week, an overview of the AI for Education site, and new rules around AI for Google students of all ages. Plus, Android users will be happy to interact with their text messages from their computer.
The discussionAnnouncing … – Martin and Sallie discuss challenges that crop up when writing church announcements and guidelines that keep your announcements concise and action driven.
- Writing Church Announcements People Actually Read from Concordia Technology Solutions
- Sample weekly announcements from St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in North Mankato, MN
Picks of the week* ‘Saved Info’ is Gemini’s Hidden Superpower * Google Messages on the Web
Community feedback & events* AI for Education * Google Gemini and Notebook LM for all ages + Should your school enable them? + Here’s how that could look
Next timeCome back for our next tips & tricks summer installment
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Welcome to WELSTech summer series 2025! Join us as we talk about practical tips and tricks to make public and personal ministry efficient and effective. The series kickoff focus is church office communication. Martin and Sallie share AI picks of the week, and there’s a Chromebook discussion thread in the WELSTech Google group.
The discussionChurch Staff Communication – Martin and Sallie chat about tools, etiquette, and standards around church staff communication. In-person or digital, response expectations, and collaboration are all pieces of the communication puzzle. Having best practices in place makes for smooth office operations.
- Maintaining Healthy Church Staff Communication with Technology from Concordia Technology Solutions
Picks of the week* AI Toolkit for Schools from Common Sense Media + Education Week article – Putting AI to work in schools is difficult. A new toolkit outlines how to do it. * Notebook LM App * Google AI mode
Community feedback & eventsFrom the WELSTech Google group – Teacher Michael Vlieger from Risen Savior in Mankato, MN asked about Chromebook repurposing after
Next timeCome back for our next tips & tricks summer installment
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This episode of WELSTech features an interview with Pastor Nate Seiltz who recently creating 3 albums of music without singing or playing a note himself. With AI at his fingertips, he transformed his ideas for gospel outreach music into reality, and you can to! We also share survey results regarding church use of AI, a handy (AI-generated) summary of recent tech news with an emphasis on its impact on the church, and ideas for using AI to extend the impact of your weekly sermon.
The discussionMusic for outreach – Pastor Nate Seiltz, Director of WELS Multi-Language Publications, talked with Martin and Sallie about his recent AI-assisted production of 3 albums of songs geared toward sharing the good news of salvation in Christ. His artist name is Freetide. “Free” because grace is free, and he is free from sin and eternal death in Christ. “Tide” signifies movement, the Holy Spirit’s work in him through His Word and movement in his life as he lives by grace.
- Made New (Spotify | Amazon Music) – These songs walk through the darkness of doubt, the fire of trials, and the ache of waiting—but they lead to grace, healing, and freedom. With honest lyrics and uplifting melodies, Made New is a declaration of what God does with the broken: He restores. He renews. He makes us new.
- Fruits of the Spirit (Spotify | Amazon Music) – These nine songs walk through each fruit of the Spirit from Galatians 5:22–23, reflecting on how they each take root in real life.
- Living Proof (Spotify | Amazon Music) – From first steps into grace to standing fearless in Christ, these songs tell a true story — of scars healed, chains broken, hope renewed. We are not who we were. We are living proof that mercy is real, and grace still wins.
- Suno.com
Ministry resource* Key insights from the 2024 National State of AI in the Church survey results by Church Tech Today
Picks of the week* Recent church tech ideas from Kim Komando, summarized by Google Gemini * Sun Seeker app – iOS | Android
Community feedback* Sign up for Concordia Technology Solutions webinar series – Tuesday, June 3, 2025 + Church Members 360 – 10 am CT + Church Ledger 360 – 11:30 am CT + Church Unite 360 – 1 pm CT * Turn one sermon into a week of discipleship – Facebook post from WELS Intersections
Next time* Our 2025 Summer series – Tips & Tricks – kicks off.
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The WELSTech co-hosts for all things edtech are driving this episode as we wrap up our SAMR focus with how it assists education leaders. We also introduce the AI Assessment Scale, a tool for clearly stating acceptable levels of AI use. Rachel has new headphones for “weird” ears that don’t like earbuds, and Jason shares a tool that uses AI to create individual student feedback. Bonus: It’s also a time-saver for teachers.
The discussionSAMR and Leadership – We close out our season-long look at the SAMR framework for education technology integration with our favorite edtech gurus, Dr. Rachel Renno, Director of Academic Computing for Martin Luther College, and Jason Schmidt, Director of Technology for Oshkosh (WI) Area School District. School leaders may find policy creation and maintenance challenging, but policies are definitely worth the effort as they provide needed structure to make decision making easier. And while a dedicated AI policy may not be needed, incorporating AI guidelines into standard policies – Acceptable Use, Academic Integrity, Data Privacy, etc. – is wise.
- Advancing AI Education for American Youth Executive Orders – April 23, 2025
- Jason’s Google Deep research results on AI in WELS Schools
- AI Assessment Scale – Build transparency around the use of AI
Ministry resource* Free AI Assessment Scale eBook by Leon Fruze – Over 50 assessment ideas
Picks of the week* Shokz – Bone conduction open-ear headphones * Snorkl – AI student feedback
Next time* Pastor Nate Seiltz from WELS Multi-Language Productions shares stories of AI music creation.
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Welcoming visitors and tracking attendance are the topics of the day on WELSTech 749. We’ve got an interview on a kiosk worship check in system which is guaranteed to make you smile, plus examples of paper attendance tracking and guest welcome stations. We also kick the tires on the recently updated WELS Call Report, share free AI prompt training, and highlight an enjoyable read on all things domain name related.
The interview & discussionAttendance tracking and visitor welcome – Martin and Sallie talk with Pastor Clark Schultz from Shepherd of the Hills, West Bend, WI about their digital check in process. The discussion continues with a look at examples of Connection cards and
- Planning Center > Check Ins
- Brother QL820NWB Label Printer
- Divine Savior, Doral, FL Connect Card
- St Paul’s, North Mankato
- Connect Card
- Online Connection “Card” Google Form
- Online Worship Attendance Google Form
- St Paul’s, North Mankato welcome table photos
Ministry resources* Concordia Technology Solutions (CTS) Resource Center + CTS on Facebook + WELS partnership with CTS
Picks of the week* The new WELS Call Report * Prompt Engineering for ChatGPT | Coursera
Community feedback & events* A crash course in domain setting from the lutheran.marketing weekly e-newsletter by Grace Ungemach (subscribe)
Next timeJason and Rachel finish out our school year SAMR focus with a discussion of Leadership and EdTech.
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Welcome to Holy Week 2025, and a warm WELSTech welcome to art educator Lori Ehlke. Lori shares her path from art and Spanish teacher through Covid shutdown to YouTube fame, and how she benefitted from learning as she went and being consistent with her work. BONUS: Lori’s work isn’t confined to the K-12 classroom. We have a ministry resource idea that may resonate with adults in your community and congregation. Grab your brush, and tune in.
The discussionDude Perfect and art collide – Art educator Lori Ehlke chatted with Martin and Sallie about how she, with her easy-to-follow art tutorials, became a YouTube star with 560+ videos and over 11,000 subscribers, and her best advice for your similar efforts.
Follow Lori at …
- Website – EhlkeArt.com
- YouTube – youtube.com/EhlkeArt
- Facebook – facebook.com/loriehlkeart
Ministry resources* Fellowship/Outreach event idea + Peace in North Mankato, MN (ELS) hosted a Painting to Gogh class featuring Lori Ehlke’s Wildflower Meadow + PaintingToGogh.com
Picks of the week* 10 Highlights from Canva Create * AI for meeting notes, summary, and action items + Otter.ai + Fireflies.ai + Comparing the two
Next timeAttendance tracking
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WELSTech is back with a deep dive into Canva waters and the terrific capabilities it has for churches and schools. The toolset is easy and intuitive, even if you’ve never used it before. This episode may be all you need to get started! Martin shares his phone case pick and there’s some AI-generated coding for the classroom happening. See you on the inside!
The discussionBehind the scenes with Canva – Sallie takes viewers to the design table using Canva and demos design templates and elements, text tools, color palettes, brand kits, and apps while Martin tries to stump her with questions. With the robust feature set and variety of formats which Canva can produce, it’s well worth the price of admission. The amazing news is churches and schools don’t pay a penny!
- Pricing & Features
- Canva for Education
- Canva for Non-Profits
Ministry resources* Canva for churches + Free church presentation software + Canva’s church templates + How to make the most out of Canva for Churches + Canva for Churches: 5 Ingenious Uses (Video)
Picks of the week Canva Bulk Create* add on – How To * Pitaka Phone Cases
Community feedback & events* Teacher Michael Vlieger from Risen Savior in Mankato, MN shared programmed resources for the classroom which he created with the help of ChatGPT and Canva. Reach out to Michael if you’d like to learn more or get a copy. + Eraser Game (Video) - Users enter text, and the application creates an exercise where clicking on a word makes it disappear. For longer passages, this helps with memorization by gradually removing words rather than requiring students to recall an entire section at once. + Banned Words Checker (Video) - Our writing series includes specific banned word lists for each lesson, but students and I occasionally overlook these during the review process. This tool allows users to input a list of banned words and their text, and provides a count of each banned word’s occurrence within the document which can be printed. + Cloze Generator (Video) - This enables teachers to create a cloze activity or a fill-in-the-blank memory work worksheet. Simply type the passage name or reference and paste or type the desired text, choose the difficulty level and font size, and click “Generate.” The application then produces a printable worksheet with a set number of words removed based on the selected difficulty. Works great for longer selections * From the WELSTech Google group + Pre-ACT accommodation challenges + Sharing school AI Policies
Next timeDigital art lessons and social sharing from someone doing both!
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WELSTech is back with so much to discuss regarding SAMR in Secondary Ed, so much brain-power from our newly awarded doctor guest host, so many picks of the week (including a bonus pick that is so tasty), so many e-newsletters on church marketing, so much trade-in value on MacBook Air computers, and so much more that you won’t want to miss! So, turn it up!
The discussionSecondary SAMR – The edtech discussion resumes as WELSTech welcomes back Doctor Rachel Renno, Director of Academic Computing for Martin Luther College, and Jason Schmidt, Director of Technology for Oshkosh (WI) Area School District. Today’s topic, secondary tech integration, relates to our season-long look at the SAMR framework for education technology integration, as we consider how best to engage and differentiate secondary education to prepare students at this level for the project-based demands of the working world.
Spoiler alert: the “C” word (change) is part of the solution.
Ministry resource* Check out Grace Ungemach’s weekly newsletter on Digital Marketing for churches at learn.lutheran.marketing
Picks of the week* Apple introduces the new MacBook Air with M4 chip * Logitech Zone Learn Headset * MindMup 2 for Google Drive + Boil-the-Bag Peanuts * Davinci Resolve
Community feedback & events* From Matt Miller’s AI for Admins newsletter – Teaching human thinking before AI
Next time* A look at all that Canva can do for you!
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Wednesday and WELSTech, an unlikely pairing, but so worth it! Join us for a recap of the recent WELSTech AI Summit plus discussion of an AI classroom tool/powerhouse, Lent and Easter resources, and browser tips to enhance your day. Blessings on this Ash Wednesday!
The discussionThere and back again – The WELSTech AI Summit was held February 21-23, 2025, at Divine Savior Church and Academy in Doral, FL. Martin and Sallie share details on the event format and the top AI-related ideas which emerged from the weekend.
- Voice Notes
Ministry resources* BriskTeaching.com
Picks of the week* Get free Lent and Easter resources from Concordia Technology Solutions * Chrome updates + Manage Google Accounts Like a PRO (video)
Community feedback & events* Facebook now has a 30-day storage limit on Facebook Live videos
Next timeSecondary school tech integration will be the SAMR infused topic of the day as we welcome our resident EDU gurus, Rachel Renno and Jason Schmidt.
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WELSTech is back and talking AI (Artificial Intelligence) from the perspective of a pastor-in-training. Senior seminarian Jon Pederson shares insights from his thesis work on the topic. A teen online Bible study opportunity is coming up soon, and WELS is celebrating a special anniversary with a new online interactive timeline which details WELS history since the beginning.
The interview and discussionAI and the public ministry – Martin and Sallie talk with Jon Pederson, a senior at Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary, about his thesis topic, AI Associate: Examining Artificial Intelligence and its Potential Impact on the Pastoral Ministry.
Ministry resources* Check out the details and sign up for the Online Teen Bible Study on February 16 @ 6 pm CST
Picks of the week* Optimize you Google Business Profile from Blueprint Schools * Readwise
Community feedback & events* A History of 175 Years of WELS from WELS Historical Institue
Next timeIt will be a bit longer wait for our next episode, but totally worth it as we’ll be sharing all the WELSTech AI Summit goodness!
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On this episode of WELSTech, the edtech guest hosts are back with more SAMR and how it supports budget and procurement decisions. Should 1:1 computing continue in all classrooms? Plus, there’s lots more covered in the ministry resources, picks, and community feedback sections of the show.
The discussionRemember that haircutting game? – WELSTech welcomes back Prof. Rachel Renno, Director of Academic Computing for Martin Luther College, and Jason Schmidt, Director of Technology for Oshkosh (WI) Area School District. This season our edtech discussions are in terms of the SAMR framework for education technology integration, and the important topics of budgeting and procurement have a tie to SAMR as well. Five-years post Covid and the necessity to adopt the 1:1 computing which ensued, decisions today are supported by the progression (or lack of progression) up the SAMR scale.
- The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt
Ministry resource* Guidance for the Federal E-Rate Program
Picks of the week Elevating Educational Design with AI by Catlin Tucker and Katie Novak * Google Learn About * Christ Begins by Luke Thompson – Christian Worship Hymn 385 + Lyric video from Mount Lebanon Lutheran Church * Daily Refresh in the Bible App * How To Take Smart Notes* by Sonke Ahrens
Community feedback & events* Register for Church360° webinars from Concordia Technology Soulutions, scheduled for February 4 + Members + Ledger + Unite * Christ Hunt at BDJ Tech can supply church and school interactive panels
Next time* Thoughts regarding Artificial Intelligence in ministry from Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary senior Jon Pederson
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What’s that? WELSTech goes “anti-tech” this episode? Say it isn’t so!! But it is somewhat true, and for a very good reason. Corralling church tech use can lead to more tech adoption and more satisfied members when tech is done well verses overdone. Seeing straight is another challenge tackled, with a little help from AI. Plus, there’s more. Turn it up!
The discussionToo much tech?? – Martin and Sallie discuss a recent article from Church Leader, Is Your Technology Use Hurting Your Church? Right-sizing technology use in the church and taking the slow road to tech adoption can help ensure success as well as curtail the potential of leaving some people out of the communication. It’s also very important to bake training & support into any tech initiative.
- Sample weekly e-news from St Paul’s in North Mankato, MN
Ministry resources* ForwardInChrist.net
Picks of the week* Edge image magic * Perplexity AI weighs in on eye strain
Community feedback & events* 17 Super Chrome Extensions * WELSWare * Cell Phone Policies
Next timeJason and Rachel are back and the edtech topic is budgeting and procurement, SAMR-style!
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WELSTech starts 2025 with a look back at 2024, our 17th year of podcasting! Listeners will likely agree that the theme of the year was AI, and Artificial Intelligence weaves its way into many of Martin and Sallie’s “best of” picks for the year.
Events* Summer Tech Talks series * Best Show title – 733 – Silent Mice – Bonus: AI graph * The WELSTech song from Suno AI
Ministry resources* Printify * AI Tool Repository * 2024 Ministry Resources
Interviews* Pastor Silas Dose – 725 – Here Be Dragons * Sarah Krause & Eileen Rosenow – 730 – Summer Tech Talks * 2024 Interviews
Picks of the year Midjourney * Apple Air Pods Pro * The 2-Hour Cocktail Party* by Nick Gray * Givebutter * Canva Pro – Free for Non-Profits & Education * Perplexity AI * Honorable Mention: Notebook LM from Google (especially the podcasts!) * 2024 Picks of the Week
Next timeJoin us in a few weeks as we dive into our 18th year of tech-in-ministry conversations.
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WELSTech meets edtech meets ministry this week as we talk tech integration steps for learning and building the infrastructure to support it. We also include details on upcoming classes and webinars of interest, AI image generation, and a surprise new DIY podcast method that gives AI a voice!
The discussionFraming it with SAMR – We welcome back to WELSTech Director of Academic Computing for Martin Luther College Professor Rachel Feld and Director of Technology for Oshkosh (WI) Area School District Jason Schmidt. This season our episodes with Jason and Rachel will include references to the technology integration framework SAMR, which stands for Substitution, Augmentation, Modification, and Redefinition. After a bit of a SAMR crash course, we learn more about how the basics of tech infrastructure in a school affect the implementation of SAMR.
Ministry resource* Coming Soon from MLC + Enhancing Ministry with Technology taught by Martin Spriggs – Spring 2025 + Open Learning webinar presented by Dr. James Carlovsky – AI Power Hour: Boost Your Productivity with Creative Tools – November 4 at 7 pm Central * There’s still time to nominate for the WELSTech AI Summit
Picks of the week* The Teachers Guide to Tech 2024 * Padlet * MidJourney * Miro
Community feedback & events* MyLens AI creates teaching visuals * NotebookLM from Google can generate a podcast * Upcoming Women’s Ministry Webinar: Little Lives with Jesus – October 10 at 7 pm Central * FCC Cyber Security Pilot Program
Next timeWELSTech will be back in a few weeks, and we’ll all be surprised by the discussion topic!
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On this episode of WELSTech, Martin and Sallie continue their discussion on ministry volunteers, with a look at the challenges of communication and showing appreciation. You’ll also hear about creating your own online store for branded merchandise from your church or school, learning the ins and outs of church speaker placement, and nominating someone for the WELSTech AI Summit. Plus, keep your eyes peeled for those stealthy mice!
The discussion & interviewCommunicating & appreciating – Martin and Sallie return to the topic of volunteers, focusing on establishing and maintaining communication channels as well as ways to show appreciation to volunteers.
- Text from your computer using iCloud and iMessage
- Turn to Pinterest for ideas on thanking volunteers
Ministry resourcesCreate an online store for your church and school (and perhaps gift your volunteers some swag)
- WELSStore.net
- Online Company Stores from Sky High Marketing (Mention you are WELS)
- Printify
Picks of the week* Logitech M340 silent mouse * Church Speaker Placement 101 – Everything You Need to Know from ChurchLeaders.com
Community feedback & events* Diffit has new templates * Copyright for live streaming * Canva Teams price increase * Martin is accepting nominations for the WELSTech AI Summit, February 21-23, 2025 in Doral, FL
Next timeThey’re baaaack! Rachel Feld and Jason Schmidt co-host and the ed tech goodness abounds!
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WELSTech is in the groove! The regular season groove, that is. Join Martin and Sallie as we kick off a new season of the show and bring back a favorite show segment, Ministry Resources, that was missed over the summer. The show focus today is adding new volunteers to your team using tools and ideas aimed at giving them the knowledge and resources to carry out their responsibilities with confidence and joy.
The discussion & interviewVolunteers for the win – Martin and Sallie take a deep dive into working with volunteers in church or school. There are tech tools to assist with finding the right people and then orienting them to their new responsibilities.
- Time and talent surveys – example 1 and example 2
- WELS Spiritual Growth survey
- Email ideas for welcoming new volunteers
- Free volunteer training videos
- Why You Need a Volunteer Onboarding Process
Ministry resources* 6 Types of Working Genius: Discover Your Gifts * At the Table Podcast
Picks of the week* Click-N-Ship from the U.S. Post Office * Loom
Community feedback & events* Canva Pro is free for educators and non-profits * ChatGPT for Parents online course from Blueprint Schools * Martin is accepting nominations for the WELSTech AI Summit, February 21-23, 2025 in Doral, FL
Next timeWe’ve got more to share on working with volunteers, including communication and appreciation.
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On this episode of WELSTech … we conclude our Summer Tech Talks series with an interesting interview of District President Joel Zank about the technology in use by WELS Conference of Presidents. We also share image editing, student reflection, browser, robotics, and transcription tools to make your days easier and more efficient. Join us today at the intersection of ministry and technology!
The discussion & interviewThe finale – Wrapping up the WELSTech Summer Tech Talks series is Northern Wisconsin District President Pastor Joel Zank from Mount Olive Lutheran Church in Appleton, WI. He and Martin discuss the technology that assists the work of WELS Conference of Presidents as they oversee the call process for pastors, teachers, and staff ministers.
Picks of the week* BINGO – Sallie’s summer of professional development is complete + Canva Pro + Mirror * Microsoft Edge
Community feedback & events* First Robotics – New robotics curriculum for grades 7-12 * Vibe! – AI for transcription + Overview video + Check out the results of Vibe! transcribing and AI summarizing this episode of WELSTech
Next timeWe start a new season with volunteer management ideas.
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It’s almost time for back-to-school, and this episode of WELSTech will introduce listeners to helpful Lutheran Schools personnel who many will recognize. They shed light on school statistics and products as well as give us a sneak peek at next summer’s WELS Education Conference, currently in the planning stages. Sallie is “certified” and can’t wait to show you how to differentiate your lesson resources. Martin has a pick so good he needs to share it a second time. Plus, we talk church worship live streaming, and there’s an infographic involved!
The discussion & interviewThe brains – Sarah Krause and Eileen Rosenow from WELS Lutheran Schools join Martin and Sallie to share a behind-the-scenes look at the important work happening in preparation for a new school year. These ladies just can’t wait for you to get those school stats and product subscriptions taken care of!
- WELS Education Conference – June 23-25, 2025, Green Bay, WI
Picks of the week* Sallie’s Summer PD Bingo Board from Ditch That Textbook + Diffit for Teachers + Diffit overview video + Diffit Certification in 20 minutes! + Diffit Wakelet + Diffit is free for first year teachers * Raindrop.io Browser Extension + Consider going Pro!
Community feedback & eventsConsiderations for live streaming worship
- Bridgetown Church Cancels Live Streaming Church Online Services from Church Tech Today
- 10 Live Streaming Consideration for Church Services[Infographic]
Click image to view the full Infographic
Next timeOur Summer Tech Talks series finale features a conversation with Northern Wisconsin District President, Pastor Joel Zank.
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Welcome to WELSTech! This episode focuses on our triple citizenship, in heaven, on this earth, and now, in a digital world. Pastor Ben Workentine shares thoughts for the Christian living in an increasingly opinionated and unfiltered digital world. We also report details on our latest hardware, print on demand, and church texting finds.
The discussion & interviewThe mic is live – Joining Martin and Sallie this week is Pastor Ben Workentine from St. Mark Lutheran Church in Green Bay and De Pere, WI. Pastor Workentine presented a paper on the topic of digital citizenship at the recent Northern Wisconsin District Convention and shares highlights from the paper with the WELSTech audience. Spoiler alert: Your audience is the world while you live your digital life as Christ’s ambassador.
- Digital Citizenship (PDF) – by Pastor Ben Workentine
Picks of the week* Sallie’s Summer PD Bingo Board from Ditch That Textbook + Printify * Apple Air Pods Pro
Community feedback & events* Pastor Dan Sprain from Shepherd of the Valley in West Fargo, North Dakota shared Gloo – Free texting for churches
Next timeWere back with more of our Summer Tech Talks series. What ministry tech goodness will we uncover next?
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WELSTech is celebrating summer with a series of tech-in-ministry interviews called “Summer Tech Talks.” This week we head west to the oil country of western North Dakota to talk with Pastor Joel Prange about starting a home mission church. Turn up the audio as Martin and Sallie both have sound-related picks of the week. In addition, there’s an opportunity to support a missions-centric videography effort.
The discussion & interviewGetting to know North Dakota – Home Missions Pastor Joel Prange talks with Martin and Sallie about his two-year journey starting a new congregation in Dickinson, North Dakota. Amazing Grace Lutheran Church is worshipping in their own space and reaching out to the people in the area.
- Planning Center & Church Center
- Stripe
- DJI Mic2
Picks of the week* Sallie’s Summer PD Bingo Board from Ditch That Textbook + Suno – AI song composer - Suno Teacher’s Program - Check out the two versions of the WELSTech Radio song it generated. Which is your favorite?
https://welstech.wels.net/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/WELSTech-Radio1.mp4https://welstech.wels.net/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/WELSTech-Radio2.mp4* Epidemic Sound
Community feedback & events* We have an opportunity to support “Christ in media” through support of videographer Colin Neville as he spends two years in Thailand with Friends Network, telling the stories of various missions through video. Learn more and support Colin’s work. * gamma.app
Next timeSummer Tech Talks continue, but mums the word on who will be behind the extra mic. Tune in to find out!
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The WELSTech “Summer Tech Talks” interview series continues with a trip to the other side of the world as we learn about the technology at work on WELS World Missions Asia One team. Sallie shares tips from the recent OpenLearning@MLC conference, and Martin has a new browser pick. Plus, we have the inside scoop on online professional development that not only includes college credit, but also has our favorite price tag – FREE!!
The discussion & interviewAsia One – Teacher Jeremy Seeger, who wears multiple hats on WELS Asia One outreach team, shares blessings and challenges around the efforts to share the good news. In addition to his duties for Asia Lutheran Seminary, where he serves as Dean of the English Certificate Program, he coordinates technology for the entire team. In the land of prolific 5G cellular, tech coordination doesn’t look much different than in the U.S.A.
- TELL Network
Picks of the week* Sallie’s Summer PD Bingo Board from Ditch That Textbook + MLC Open Learning recap (spoiler: Teamwork required!) + Telling the Next Generation * The ARC browser
Community feedback & events* Idaho State University’s Self-Paced Professional Development + Get a $200 credit to cover your first 3-credit course * The New Grading Standard from Blueprint Schools
Next timeSummer Tech Talks continue as we head west to check out a new Home Mission in North Dakota.
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Welcome to the good ole summertime on WELSTech! Our “Summer Tech Talks” interview series will feature technology from around the synod and across the world. This week we start in St. Louis, MO, home of Concordia Technology Solutions. The back half of the show includes Sallie sharing teacher professional development resources and Martin divulging his new favorite AI chatbot.
The discussion & interviewConcordia Technology Solutions – Joining Martin and Sallie is Manager of Sales and Marketing for Concordia Technology Solutions (CTS), Rob Davidson. Rob shares the latest news about CTS products including Church 360°, Christian Worship Service Builder, and Shepherd’s Staff.
- Request a Free Church Office Technology Assessment
- Recent update to Christian Worship Service Builder provides multiple Bible translations – Learn how to change translations
Picks of the week* Summer Professional Development + MLC Open Learning – June 18 & 19 + Summer PD Bingo Choice Board from Ditch That Textbook + Wakelet Community Week * Perplexity.ai + Perplexity AI: How does it stack up against ChatGPT? from Android Authority + 5 reasons why I prefer Perplexity over every other AI chatbot from ZDNET
Community feedback & events* 6 AI Tools Recommended By Teachers That Aren’t ChatGPT from Forbes + Brisk Teaching + SchoolAI + Diffit + Curipod + Skybox by Blockade Labs in ThingLink + Ideogram * Generative AI in a Nutshell – how to survive and thrive in the age of AI
Next timeSummer Tech Talks continue with a (virtual) trip to Thailand to learn more about technology at Asia Lutheran Seminary.
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Turn up the volume for WELSTech as we talk fantasy and escapism from a Christian perspective with Silas Dose. Martin has a trackpad pick and WELSTech friend, Philip Wels has been busy at the video editing desk crafting a video that captures the joy and excitement of graduation and assignment at Martin Luther College.
Pastor-elect Silas Dose and his wife Laurel Dose
The discussion & interviewFig leaves and pelts – Senior seminarian and now Pastor-elect Silas Dose joins Martin and Sallie to discuss his master’s thesis at Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary, titled Here Be Dragons: Fantasy, Escapism, and a Christian Response.
Congratulations and God’s blessings to Silas and his wife Laurel as they prepare to move and Silas prepares to serve God’s people in his assigned congregation, Hope Lutheran Church in Chino Valley and Prescott, Az.
A PRAYER BEFORE FANTASYfrom Here Be Dragons, Appendix, p. 44.
Dear Heavenly Father, you call us to glorify you in everything we do, and all good things point to you. With your blessing, Lord, I would enjoy this gift of fantasy as a blessing from your hand. Help me avoid irresponsibility and temptation as I venture into a world not your own, but let it still be a blessing to me as a tiny fractal of your creative majesty. Help me to escape into it, find rest, enjoying it fully. Help me to escape from it, full of wonder, returning joyfully. Amen
Ministry resourcesBooks mentioned in Silas’ research
- Escapism by Yi-Fu Tuan
- Tree and Leaf: Including ‘Mythopoeia’ by J.R.R. Tolkein
- On Fairy Stories – essay by J.R.R. Tolkien (free PDF)
Picks of the week* Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary Digital Library * Apple Magic Trackpad + Three Finger Drag setting + PC trackpad alternatives
Community feedback & eventsEnjoy this happy WELS Together Martin Luther College Graduation recap video created by WELSTech friend, Philip Wels.
Next timeWe kick off a summer series of interviews on ministry technology usage around the world. First up, we talk with Rob Davidson from Concordia Technology Solutions (CTS), the group behind Shepherd’s Staff, Church 360°, and Christian Worship Service Builder. Join WELSTech in the good old summertime!
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On this episode of WELSTech we finish our book discussion of The AI Classroom with a focus on school leadership’s role in shaping AI policy, curriculum, and usage. Along with edtech gurus Rachel and Jason, we share oodles of AI tools, events, and news, plus some non-AI tech topics including cybersecurity, end of school-year activities, and iPads.
The discussionLeading School AI – We wrap up this season’s WELSTech book discussion of The AI Classroom: The Ultimate Guide to Artificial Intelligence in Education, looking at Part 4 of the book – The AI Horizon. Rachel Feld and Jason Schmidt join the conversation and agree on way more than normal!
Ministry resource* AI Guidance For Schools Toolkit from TeachAI.org + Should K-12 Leaders Make AI Education Mandatory in Schools? * Bringing AI To School: Tips for School Leaders from ISTE
Picks of the week* SchoolAI.com Assistants * CyberSecurityRubric.org * Monday, May 13 is DayOfAI.org * End of the Year THRIVE-al (Not Survival) Guide – from Ditch That Textbook * Apple iPad * Press and hold YouTube for 2x speed
Community feedback & eventsRecent AI in Education headlines
- Is It Fair and Accurate for AI to Grade Standardized Tests? – from EdSurge
- Newark Public School awards $12M contract for new AI camera system aimed at keeping schools safe – from Chalkbeat
- Los Angeles School District Launched a Splashy AI Chatbot. What Exactly Does It Do? – from EdSurge
- Why AI celebrities are teaching kids math and physics – from Freethink
Next timeWe’ll celebrate Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary Assignment Day with Senior Seminarian Silas Dose discussing his thesis topic – Here Be Dragons: Fantasy, Escapism, and a Christian Response.
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We’re back with another episode of WELSTech starring your handy, dandy calendar. Learn all about time blocking and how it can boost your productivity. We discuss an interactive book creation tool that looks like fun for the classroom and a simple but effective task manager which might be in your pocket right now. We also celebrate a new grandson for one of your “Awesome” WELSTech hosts!
The discussionWork Your Calendar – Martin and Sallie discuss a key tool for productivity, your calendar. Specifically, the topic is using your calendar to set up blocks of time to focus on specific tasks you need to accomplish. Mix in a bit of self-discipline, and this method could be a ticket to more productive days!
- The Complete Guide to Time Blocking – todoist
- 3 time blocking methods to boost productivity – Zapier
- Simple Time Management – Bullet Journal
- Eat That Frog WELSTech series
Ministry resourcesCalendar Management Wakelet
Picks of the week* Book Creator + Monthly Activity Journals * Apple Reminders – Overview | Help
Community feedback & eventsThe topic which never goes out of style: I need advice on my church and/or school website.
- WELSTech 665 – Web Design Principles
- WELSTech Google Group
- Finalweb
Next timeJust like that we’ve reached the end of another school year and another year of edtech discussions with Rachel and Jason. Tune in for the wrap up of The AI Classroom.
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Join us for WELSTech 722 where we talk about tech decision making which will stand the test of time. We also share details on an upcoming webinar on the topic of mental health, a great invention to manage the cords in your computer bag, scanning and organizing Google-style, and Sallie’s latest hardware addition.
The discussionTech that lasts – Martin and Sallie share considerations which should be part of technology decisions, and, spoiler alert, cost isn’t at the top of the list. It is helpful to have some experience with technology on your side as you evaluate potential tools, but your selections shouldn’t necessarily be the tech-lover’s dream if that means they are too complex for the average user. Examples of “Swiss army knife” tools which have stood the test of time for Martin and Sallie include Trello and Google Slides.
Ministry resourcesRegister for the upcoming Women’s Ministry webinar – (mis) Understanding Mental Health happening May 2 at 7 pm
Picks of the week* GRID-IT! Organizer by Cocoon * Scan documents with Google Drive
Community feedback & events* Before you die, decide who gets access to your online accounts and digital files * From WELS Intersections Facebook group + Incentivize contact cards + Top streaming cameras * 5 Gallon Electric Drinking Portable Water Dispenser
Next timeTune in for time boxing!
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Tune in to this episode of WELSTech for a discussion of ways Artificial Intelligence (AI) can assist teachers with Universal Design for Learning (UDL) plans. We also talk about AI policy for schools and evaluating AI tools. The Newline C series is an affordable new interactive flat panel with no operating system on board. And Northwestern Publishing House (NPH) announced a new Christian Authors Live series.
The discussionUDL + Tools – This season’s WELSTech book discussion of The AI Classroom: The Ultimate Guide to Artificial Intelligence in Education by Daniel Fitzpatrick, Amanda Fox, and Brad Weinstein continues. Martin and Sallie are joined by edtech extraordinaries, Rachel Feld and Jason Schmidt, and we talk about AI’s sweet spot with Universal Design for Learning (UDL) as well as tips for wading through the myriad AI tools available for teachers and students.
- UDL guidelines from Cast.org
- Draft AI policies from Oshkosh Area School District for students and teachers
- 8 Tips for Schools to Avoid Chaos in the Age of AI from EdWeek
- A Comprehensive Guide for Evaluating AI Tools for Classroom Use from Shake Up Learning
Ministry resourceRachel put together an AI Tool Repository with links, tutorials, and Terms of Use for the AI tools mentioned in Chapter 9 of The AI Classroom
Picks of the week* Common Sense Education’s AI Literacy Lessons – Grades 6-12 (& adults) * Ludia from Poe – An AI-powered UDL partner * Fax Plus * Use Apple Calendar Like A Pro
Community feedback & events* Newline C series interactive flat panel with no operating system * Christian Authors Live event featuring Dr. Michael Berg – April 25
Next timeFuture proof your tech
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On this episode of WELSTech, we learn about the tech side of mission outreach via Academia Cristo and TELL Network, including the messaging tool which has had a huge impact on that work. We also share details on a boatload of WELS summer events and classes, plus picks of the week that will have you drawing org charts and getting organized!
The discussion & interviewMission conversations – Martin and Sallie are joined by Jon Gross, Field Producer for Multi-Language Productions (MLP) Latin America’s Academia Cristo, and Grace Ungemach, Marketing Operations Manager for TELL Network. Jon and Grace share information and blessings about the mission work they support, as well as how Respond.io has positively impacted their broad efforts.
Ministry resourcesSummer events
- Taste of Missions – June 15 – Mequon, WI
- Youth Rally – June 25-28 – Ft Collins, CO
- LWMS – June 27-30 – Sioux Falls, SD
- Women’s Ministry – July 28-30 – Pewaukee WI
- Worship – July 30-Aug 2 – Kenosha WI
- Hearts and Hands Events
- MLC summer courses
Picks of the week* Drawio * ToDoist
Community feedback & events* Apple Podcast transcribes the audio in app * SmartSheet
Next timeWe’ll talk AI in the Classroom with Jason & Rachel on the next WELSTech!
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We’re celebrating Leap Day WELSTech-style as we leap back in time in 4-year increments to find out what was on the podcast docket on four leap days of the past. We also have details on an upcoming webinar, AI and e-giving picks of the week, and a techie e-newsletter of note!
The discussionLeap Back with Us – It’s Leap Day 2024, and Martin and Sallie are revisiting four previous leap year’s podcast episodes to check out the topics on our minds and changes over time.
- With All Your Heart: Project Management for Churches, Christian Schools and Faith-Based Organizations
- Zoom
- Internat Safety to Digital Citizenship
- SnagIt screen capture which has stood the test of time!
- From Picnik to Pic Monkey to Canva for online image editing
- Church360° and more from Concordia Technology Solutions
Ministry resourcesRegister for the upcoming Women’s Ministry webinar – Part 2 of Reviving Relationships Through Biblical Hospitality happening March 7 at 7 pm
Picks of the week* Classroom AI 101: Imagining Story Setting with Text-Evidence Supported Prompting * GiveButter
Community feedback & eventsFrom WELS Intersections Facebook group
- Black Art by NappyStock
- Kim Komando newsletter
Next timeJon and Grace from Multi-Language Productions share the global messaging tool that’s having a positive impact on outreach efforts.
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Webinars may be just the platform your ministry needs to spread a message or host an event. On this episode of WELSTech, we dig into webinar’s purpose and logistics. And we welcome Women’s Ministry to the conversation as executive committee member Rachel Halldorson takes us on a “backstage” tour of their recent webinars. Martin has a pick that will really stick with you, and there’s lots to discuss in WELS Intersections.
The discussion & interviewWebinars 101 – Martin and Sallie are joined by Rachel Halldorson from WELS Women’s Ministry Executive Committee as we discuss what it takes to host ministry-related webinars. The to-to list includes panelist, equipment, promotion, extra hands for moderation and crowd control, and more.
- Zoom – Getting started with Zoom webinars
- Microsoft Teams – Get Started with Microsoft Teams webinar
- Attend this summer’s WELS Women’s Ministry Conference – July 28-30, 2024 in Pewaukee, WI
Ministry resourcesWomen’s Ministry webinars
Picks of the week* The 2-Hour Cocktail Party: How to Build Big Relationships with Small Gatherings by Nick Gray – a great format for friendship evangelism + Party.pro + Nick Gray on YouTube * Smartish Cable Wrangler
Community feedback & eventsFrom WELS Intersections Facebook group
- Sample online discipleship course
- AI Usage Policy template
Next timeCelebrate Leap Day, WELSTech-style with Martin & Sallie, as we leap back in time in 4-year increments.
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AI in education and church makes for an interesting WELSTech episode! Tune in for special guest hosts Rachel and Jason and help with crafting and refining useful AI prompts to assist with everything from report card comments to church graphics.
The discussionPREP and EDIT – Martin and Sallie are joined by edtech gurus Rachel Feld and Jason Schmidt to continue the discussion of The AI Classroom: The Ultimate Guide to Artificial Intelligence in Education by Daniel Fitzpatrick, Amanda Fox, and Brad Weinstein. Chapters 6 & 7 are all about the prompts we give AI and what we do with the results.
- PREP and EDIT explained
- Rache’s Prompt Engineering presentation
- Claude.ai
- Quillbot
Ministry resourcePosts on AI for Church from Church Tech Today
Picks of the week* Magic School AI * SchoolAI * Logitech Pebble Keys 2 Wireless Keyboard * MailTrack
Community feedback & events* ChatGPT for Teachers course from Blueprint Schools
Next timeWomen’s Ministry webinars with Rachel Halldorson
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Welcome to WELSTech in 2024! We kick off the new year with a discussion of the challenges around coordinating our many digital personas for work, home, church, and more. NPH has a new book discussion group, Martin has a new-found appreciation of Goodnotes, and we share have a great cheat sheet to get you started with online form creation.
The discussionStaying atop your digital life – From work, home, and church to volunteer responsibilities and extended family, our digital lives overflow with email, tasks, and calendar events. Martin and Sallie discuss their tech solutions for managing and shifting between the varied roles they play.
Ministry resources Join the Northwestern Publishing House (NPH) Book Club on Goodreads + Currently reading The Story of God’s Love* + Details on the reading challenge + Enter to win a free copy of the book
Picks of the week* Write It Down – Facebook group for journaling God’s Word * Goodnotes
Community feedback & events* Church 360 Members webinar – Tuesday, January 16 at 1 pm Central * WELSTech Google Group * Google Forms Cheat Sheet
Next timeOur edtech gurus, Rachel and Jason, are back to discuss AI prompts from chapters 6 & 7 of The AI Classroom.
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Just like that, 2023 draws to a close, and it’s time to wrap up the 16th year of WELSTech! Martin and Sallie reminisce about the year’s best events, ministry resources, interviews, and picks, and look forward to lots more tech-in-ministry goodness in 2024!
Events We celebrated 700 episodes with a look back at WELSTech tech-in-ministry history * Leadership Conference * Tech Like a Pirate* summer book series
Ministry resources* The Foundation * Everyone Outreach * All the 2023 ministry resources
Interviews* Amada Klemp on e-newsletters * Corissa Nelson on worship visuals * All the 2023 interviews
Picks of the year* Apple Watch SE * xTool D1 Pro 20w diode laser * 6 Types of Working Genius * Alexa Smart Home * Grammarly * Canva + Magic Media (AI) * Raindrop.io * All the 2023 picks
Next timeWe kick off the new year with a look ahead at what’s coming on the tech-in-ministry horizon.
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The WELSTech Christmas tradition continues as we feature an interview-only show with someone from WELS Headquarters, the Center for Mission and Ministry, to share more about their area of responsibility for WELS. Dan Nommensen, Operations Manager for WELS Congregational Services joins Martin and Sallie to reflect on his first few months on the job and share what’s on the horizon for Congregational Services. Merry Christmas!!
The interviewDeveloping relationships – Martin and Sallie chat with Dan Nommensen, Operations Manager for WELS Congregational Services, on the new role he is filling, the 35,000 video meetings he’s attended since July, and the beacon of light each believer can be, reflecting our love for Christ!
- Everyone Outreach
- WELS Congregational Services
- The Foundation
Next timeThe spotlight shines on the best of WELSTech in 2023.
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Wonderful … Creative … Verbose? This episode of WELSTech features a talent boost that’s sure to entertain while it educates! We’re sharing what we’ve learned about AI during our book discussion with our special guest edtech correspondents. There’s also a special Advent treat, picks to improve your productivity and video production, plus a couple of cool videos explaining multi-grade classrooms.
The discussionPed-AI-gogy – Martin and Sallie, along with our well-spoken education technology correspondents Rachel Feld and Jason Schmidt, return to this season’s book discussion of The AI Classroom: The Ultimate Guide to Artificial Intelligence in Education by Daniel Fitzpatrick, Amanda Fox, and Brad Weinstein. Chapters 4 & 5 are centered around pedagogy and make for an interesting, albeit boxy, look at the continuum of adoption of the current disruptive tool, Artificial Intelligence (AI), in education.
Ministry resource* Upcoming Christmas Concerts + Martin Luther College – Dec 2 @ 7:30 pm and Dec 3 @ 4:00 pm – Both concerts will be livestreamed + Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary – Dec 10 @ 3:00 and 7:00 pm – The 3:00 pm concert will be livestreamed * Forward in Christ interactive Advent devotions – Learn more on this Together video update
Picks of the week* Ditch Summit * Use Google Bard to summarize a YouTube video + Jason’s example – Summarizing Sir Ken Robinson’s Changing Education Paradigm’s TED Talk + Snipd does the same for podcast * CapCut – AI video editing + Thanks, Principal Michael Vlieger from Risen Savior LES in Mankato, MN! + Sample Risen Savior Connection generated with CapCut * Microsoft OneNote + OneNote Review – Does it work well on your iPad? + Learn more about the PARA Method + How to Setup PARA in OneNote: Organize Your Life Like a Pro!
Community feedback & events* Bing Chat rebrands as Copilot + How to use Bing AI // Bing Chat and Dall-E 3 + Enhance Teaching and Learning with Bing Chat – Free Microsoft course * From the WELSTech Google Group – Tim Vogel is the source of Multi-Grade Classroom videos + What is a multi-grade classroom? + Benefits of a multi-grade classroom
Next timeWELSTech celebrates Christmas with an interview of Dan Nommensen
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WELSTech is back with a discussion of screen design for worship. Digital artist, Corissa Nelson, joins the conversation to share ideas for getting started designing for screens. AI continues to dominate tech news, and more ideas for church usage are being shared as well. Sallie is excited for home automation, and Martin is reading wisely. Finally, Barna weighs in with a study on Christian’s perceptions of AI usage in church settings.
The discussion & interviewAspire to keep it simple – Martin and Sallie are joined by Corissa Nelson, Digital Artist. The topic is worship screens, and Corissa’s advice covers everything from fonts and backgrounds to goals and tools. Corissa is the designer behind many of the graphics in WELS Congregational Services Foundation series for worship planning. Her work can be viewed at corissanelsonart.com.
- Service Builder
- Service Builder Presentations and Presentation Formats webinar archive
- Foundation Year A | Year B
Ministry resources* 6 Things You Can Do with Chat GPT and AI for Churches * Construct an AI Workflow for Sermon Content Repurposing
Picks of the week* Alexa home automation * Readwise Reader
Community feedback & events* Lutheran AI group on Facebook * How U.S. Christians Feel About AI & the Church – from Barna
Next timeRachel and Jason are back to talk more about our edtech book feature, The AI Classroom.
Get involved* Add comments * Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net * Join the WELSTech community: + WELSTech Google Group + WELSTech on Facebook + WELSTech on Pinterest + WELSTech on Instagram * Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net * Contribute to the #WELSTech Twitter conversation * Follow us on Twitter – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper * Share with the Diigo group welstech
If you are looking for more time in your day, today’s WELSTech is a must-listen! The spotlight is on automating church and school tasks. We also preview the online Gospel Outreach with Media conference, and Martin has found the world’s greatest bookmarking tool.
The discussionMake it automatic – Martin and Sallie share ideas for doing away with repetitive tasks in favor of no-code computer magic which you set up once and forget. Check out the cloud services that will literally do your work for you!
- Zapier
- IFTTT
- FollowUpThen
- SignUp
- Power Automate
- Make
- Doodle
- Meal Train
- Keyboard Maestro
- Planning Center
- Text To Church
- ChurchStamp
Ministry resourcesWELS and WELS Congregational Services RSS feeds
Picks of the week* Google for Education’s Guide to AI in Education for teachers and student/parent friendly AI Literacy Guide * Raindrop.io
Community feedback & events* Gospel Outreach with Media online conference is open now until November 6. A special focus this year is examining “The Chosen”. + Check out Pastor Rob Guenther’s Virtual Reality Camp overview.
Next timeJoin us for a conversation with digital artist Corissa Nelson about best practices for worship projection.
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It’s always a happy day when Martin and Sallie are in the same location for a WELSTech recording, and that’s the case on this episode! Join us in Sallie’s living room for a discussion of to do list, upcoming big events, chair cushions, and a bit of AI in education. You won’t want to miss this dose of WELSTech goodness!
The discussionTo Do lists – Perhaps the first component of any productivity effort is the “simple” to do list. Martin and Sallie discuss their expectations of the perfect to do list tool, including the ability to set reminders, manage recurring tasks, and integrate with email and calendars, as well as a full host of potential tools from paper to digital and across all platforms.
- Any.do
- Trello
- Microsoft ToDo
- OneNote and Evernote
- Todoist
- TickTick
- Things
- OmniFocus
- Remember the Milk
- Bullet Journal
- Day Timer
Ministry resourcesMark your calendar for these events happening in the summer of 2024:
- WELS International Youth Rally– June 25-28 – Colorado State University, Ft. Collins, CO
- Lutheran Women’s Missionary Society (LWMS) 61st Annual Convention – June 27-30 – Sioux Falls, SD
- WELS Women’s Ministry Conference – July 28-30 – The Ingleside Hotel, Pewaukee, WI
- National Conference on Worship, Music, and the Arts –July 30-August 2 – Carthage College, Kenosha, WI
Picks of the week* Purple Ultimate Seat Cushion * Microsoft ToDo
Community feedback & events* Matt Miller from Ditch That Textbook recently spoke on a Swivl webinar titled The Future of Classwork with AI and a free replay is available, as well as Matt’s slidedeck.
Next timeOne thing leads to another in church and school management. Martin and Sallie discuss automating tasks using a variety of utilities.
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The future has arrived on WELSTech as we kick off a series of shows on artificial intelligence. We also discuss The Foundation series from Congregational Services, making stickers on the Cricut Xtra, using your phone as a webcam, and more. Turn it up and enjoy!
The discussionThe Uprising – A new season of edtech discussion is underway with special guest host, Prof. Rachel Feld from Martin Luther College. We’re discussing the recently published book The AI Classroom: The Ultimate Guide to Artificial Intelligence in Education by Daniel Fitzpatrick, Amanda Fox, and Brad Weinstein. Part one of the book is a bit of a history lesson on artificial intelligence (AI). We talk about what it is, how it works, and ways we’re already using it, plus we look at its potential for the future, and some of the not so admirable qualities of AI.
Ministry resource* Using the Foundation to reach the unchurched
Picks of the week* Cricut Xtra * Verizon Innovative Learning HQ * Use Your Phone as a Webcam
Community feedback & events* Principal Michael Vlieger from Risen Savior in Mankato, MN is using AI in the classroom + web.diffit.me + twee.com + MagicSchool.ai + QuestionWell.org * Ryan Kirchoff from Blueprint Schools also writes about MagicSchool * Watch an introduction to Magic School
Next timeWe don’t know the topic yet, but it will be great because Martin and Sallie will be in the same place!
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This episode of WELSTech kicks off with news of a docuseries in development to reach ex-Mormons with the gospel message. We learn that the Christian Life Resources Convention is just a month away, plus picks of the week include Bible video resources and an important productivity tip. There’s also a call for distance English teachers which has outreach potential as well. We’re happy to join you are at the intersection of tech and ministry!
The discussionNew docuseries – Pastor Mark Parsons from Truth in Love Ministries and Brian Urbanek from GoldWing Productions share details with Martin and Sallie about a new outreach effort to ex-Mormons which will feature a docuseries of videos titled Jesus is Enough.
- Learn more and get involved with Jesus is Enough
Ministry resources* Christian Life Resources National Convention – October 14 @ Kettle Moraine Lutheran High School & livestream
Picks of the week* BibleProject YouTube channel – featuring sketch overviews of books of the Old and New Testament + Check out the first half of Exodus * WorkingMemory.txt – The Most Important Productivity Tool You’ve Never Heard Of
Community feedback & events* Would you like to volunteer to teach English to children in East Asia via Zoom? It only takes 1 hour per week! Contact WELSTech for more details. * The latest buzz in the WELSTech Google Group is a call for GoGuardian-like recommendations for monitoring Chromebooks.
Next timeEducational technology takes the stage, featured our friends Jason and Rachel.
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WELSTech is back with a wrap up discussion of Tech Like a PIRATE, our Summer 2023 book selection. Teacher Donovan Waege joins the book conversation. Sallie tips her hand on two of her favorite e-newsletters, and Martin shares a new recommended password keeper solution. Plus, there’s a new podcast for your playlist! The discussion That’s […]
Welcome back to WELSTech! Today’s segment of summer reading from Tech Like a PIRATE focuses on exploration and global communication in the classroom. Plus, we learn that even Martin breaks a sweat sometimes, and that’s ok! Sallie plays the hardware pick “ultimate trump card” while Martin does some star gazing. All this, and more, awaits! […]
Collaborate with WELSTech on our classroom technology discussion of Matt Miller’s book, Tech Like a PIRATE! We review chapters 5 & 6 this week, and share a few summer hardware pics we’ve added to our setups. There’s community news covering AI Sermons, Google Ads for Non Profits, and video professional development for teachers. The discussion […]
It’s summertime on WELSTech, and this week the discussion is on chapters 3 & 4 of our current reading selection, Tech Like a PIRATE. Martin and Sallie share their picks of the week (royalty free images for your phone and an Apple watch competitor) plus lots of Community Feedback. Join the conversation! The discussion Video, […]
Welcome to summer on WELSTech! Martin and Sallie share an abbreviated show centered on chapters 1 & 2 of the summer reading selection, Tech Like a PIRATE. Picks include puzzles with a tech twist to entertain and passkeys with a storage solution to keep you safe. Plus, the Taste of Missions event is coming up quickly. Enjoy the show!
The discussionAaarrrggg – Martin and Sallie kick off a summer book discussion of Matt Miller’s Tech Like a PIRATE: Using Classroom Technology to Create an Experience and Make Learning Memorable.
“Don’t just teach a lesson. Create an experience!”
-Dave Burgess, Teach Like a PIRATE
- Tech Like a Pirate resources
Picks of the week* Journal 29 – Available on Amazon * 1Password + What Are Passkeys?
Community feedback & eventsRegister for Taste of Missions
- Happening June 10 at Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary & via Live Stream
Next timeTech Like a Pirate – Chapters 3 & 4
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WELSTech is back! They may be a bit rusty, but Martin and Sallie are happy to be back at the podcasting desk and happy to be joined by edtech guest hosts, Rachel and Jason. The discussion focus is the currently “hot” tech topic, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and its effect on education. They share details on a free summer online conference from Martin Luther College (MLC) which includes that same topic, as well as watches and notes and streaming from Sweden to enjoy.
The discussionIncredible AI – We welcome our semi-regular classroom technology correspondents, Prof. Rachel Feld, Director of Academic Computing and Online Learning from Martin Luther College (MLC), and Jason Schmidt, Executive Director of Wisconsin Virtual School to the show for a wrap up of our The Incredibles of EdTech series. This week we focus on the versatile, powerful, and somewhat scary character of baby Incredible, Jack Jack, and compare him to Artificial Intelligence (AI). From email to quizzes to images (Jack Jack in a Spiderman suit), and much more, an assortment of AI tools stand ready to generate whatever content a user desires. We discuss the challenges and blessings AI presents for education.
- Bard – Google’s AI
- Ditch That Textbook’s AI Tools
- Perplexity – sites sources
- Conker – create quizzes
- Bing Create – create images like llamas listening to music in a sunny meadow
- Learn Prompting
Ministry resourceRegister now for Open Learning @MLC
- June 13-14, 2023
- This free online conference will feature Day 1 presentations focused on AI in Education
- Day 2 includes discussions on replacing Saxon Math and assisting parents with spiritual leadership
Picks of the week* Magic ToDo, Formalier and more from Goblin Tools * CASIO Calculator Watch * Apple Watch SE * Apple Notes – Review from Paperlike
Community news & feedback Karl Birkenfjäll shares details on the streaming setup* for the Lutheran Confessional Church of Sweden, Stockholm * EdTech 2023: SmartBrief Reader’s Choice Awards
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On this episode of WELSTech, Martin and Sallie talk with e-news expert Amanda Klemp about the content and desired statistics for e-newsletter efforts. Plus, we share image resources and ideas for both church and school e-news to support the efforts. The picks this week are helpful for detecting ChatGPT content and for upping the ante on your Mac webcam.
The interviewShoot for 3% – WELS Editorial Projects Manager Amanda Klemp joins Martin and Sallie to share her experience overseeing the many WELS e-newsletters. Listen for insight into desired thresholds for open and click rates that may surprise (and relieve) you. Amanda also details important considerations for determining the format and style of your messages.
- wels.net/subscribe – Sign up for WELS e-news
- 10 best newsletter platforms for content creators in 2023 – from Marketer Milk
Stock images
- Lutheran Stock Photos
- CreationSwap
- Pixabay
- Pexels
- Unsplash
Ministry resource* Why You Need a Church Email Marketing Strategy – from Outreach * Awesome Classroom Newsletters with MailChimp (video)
Picks of the week* Use GPTZero.me to test text for AI generation – a tip from the Blueprint-Schools.com webinar on ChatGPT * iPhone Continuity Camera
Next timeTune in for ideas to use your calendar to get creative!
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For the 700th time, welcome to WELSTech, a show about technology and ministry and where those two intersect! Martin and Sallie look way back to 2008 when the show started and explore the changing landscape of tech-in-ministry which they’ve observed through the years. Church texting platforms, fancy social media posts, and AI-generated text are some of the 2023 tech-in-ministry topics discussed on this episode as well.
The discussionA big milestone – Martin and Sallie suited up to celebrate this 700th episode of WELSTech with a look back at where and why it started, tech-in-ministry topics then and now, retro WELSTech images, and book reviews through the years. Plus, the WELSTech “ace in the hole” is revealed!
Ministry resourceTop 28 Church Texting Platforms – Comparison chart in the PDF
- Synod uses TextMagic
- Church360 Members from Concordia Technology includes texting features
Picks of the week* Format Facebook and Instagram posts with Caption Maker * Gmail URL Chrome extension
Community news & feedback* Grace Ungemach shares Digital Marketing Education Written for the Called Worker weekly e-news + Check out the archive * AI generated WELSTech poetry from Michael Vlieger * ChatGPT – How Should Faith-based Schools Respond? + Register for a free webinar on this topic – February 15, 2023, at 5:30 pm CT – from Blueprint Schools
Next timeAmanda Klemp from WELS Communication Services shares tips for great e-newsletters
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Things are lively on this week’s WELSTech as we return to our Incredibles of EdTech series. Tech infrastructure is the focus, and we learn about challenges and strategies for managing this invisible force. Outreach, working genius, chair wheels, and grammar are just a few of the other topics which fill to overflowing this episode. Enjoy!
The discussionInvisible Infrastructure – The podcast table has 5 seats this week as we welcome our semi-regular classroom technology correspondents, Prof. Rachel Feld, Director of Academic Computing and Online Learning from Martin Luther College (MLC), and Jason Schmidt, Executive Director of Wisconsin Virtual School, along with special guest Bob Martens, Director of Information Technology at MLC.
We continue with the third installment of our school year series – The Incredibles of EdTech. Like Violet, the oldest Incredible child, whose superpower is invisibility, tech infrastructure is an invisible, yet incredibly important, component of educational technology. Bob is freshly off teaching a new MLC Graduate Studies course on the topic and shares details about what’s involved, determining expectations, and partnering with local experts to support ever-changing infrastructure needs.
Ministry resourceEveryone Outreach
Picks of the week* 6 Types of Working Genius * Apple MacBook Pro with M2 * Cool Chair Wheels * Lutheran Leadership resources + Including a slew from Wendy Kuschel, featured on WELSTech 695 * Grammarly
Community news & feedbackFrom the WELSTech Google Group
- How do you track online worship attendance
- Anyone use Hubspot from church management
- Pros and cons on using biometric student information systems
Next timeJoin us for a very special episode as WELSTech turns 700! We’ll take a look at tech in ministry, then and now.
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Recorded in the Grand Ballroom of the Chicago Hilton, a site visited by President John F. Kennedy and Queen Elizabeth II (among others), WELSTech is covering WELS National Conference on Lutheran Leadership in style! Listen in as Martin and Sallie are joined by WELS Tech team member Dan Retzlaff to reflect on the mountain of information gained as well as the incredible worship experiences and fellowship opportunities which happen when you spend time together with 1,300+ fellow WELS members.
The interviewMartin and Sallie are joined by Dan Retzlaff, Director of WELS Software Services, for a discussion of their experiences at WELS National Conference on Lutheran Leadership. Dan also shares a behind-the-scenes look into the work of his Software Services team.
Next timeThe Incredibles of EdTech series continues with a lively discussion of the invisible superpower of infrastructure.
Get involved* Add comments * Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net * Join the WELSTech community: + WELSTech Google Group + WELSTech on Facebook + WELSTech on Pinterest + WELSTech on Instagram * Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net * Contribute to the #WELSTech Twitter conversation * Follow us on Twitter – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper * Share with the Diigo group welstech
Join Martin and Sallie for a look back at WELSTech 2022 featuring our favorite ministry resources, interviews, and picks. As we wrap up the 15th year of WELSTech, we look ahead to our upcoming 700th podcast and beyond, with lots more tech-in-ministry goodness planned for 2023!
Events* Tech-Enhanced Ministry summer series * WELS Education Conference featuring Martin Luther College President Rich Gurgel’s Keynote on Renewing Our Joy in Service Under the Cross * We enjoyed exploring senior Seminarian’s tech-in-ministry thesis topics, but that didn’t include Sallie’s son who finished Seminary and was ordained at Trinity in Kaukauna, WI
Ministry resources* WELS Online Yearbook * Martin Luther College Continuing Education/Graduate Studies Spring 2023 classes * All the 2022 ministry resources
Interviews* Pastor Caleb Bassett – 672 – Service Builder * Beth Taticek – 676 – Spotlight on LWMS * All the 2022 interviews
Picks of the year Scrum: The Art of Doing Twice the Work in Half the Time co-authored b Jeff and J.J. Sutherland * Waklet – Martin’s Mobile Ministry Sample * Google Photos > Albums (Sallie’s Sample) * How to Take Smart Notes* by Sanke Ahrens * Wordle + Make your own at myWordle.me + Worldle + Versely by WELSTech-er Philip Wels * Readwise * All the 2022 picks
Next timeWait for it! We’re delaying our next release so we can record from WELS National Conference on Lutheran Leadership. Look for that episode on January 20.
Get involved* Add a comment * Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net * Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net * Contribute to the #WELSTech Twitter conversation * Follow us on Twitter – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper * Share with the Diigo group welstech * Join the WELSTech community: + WELSTech Google Group + WELSTech on Facebook + WELSTech on Google+ + WELSTech on Pinterest + WELSTech on Instagram
Tis the season for the WELSTech Christmas special! Each year at Christmas we host an interview-only show with someone from the Center for Mission and Ministry to share more about their area of responsibility for WELS. This year Pastor Dan Sims joins the conversation as we talk about the work of WELS Christian Aid & Relief. Merry Christmas!!
The interviewCompassion ministry – Pastor Dan Sims, Director of WELS Christian Aid & Relief, joins Martin and Sallie to share details on the work of this group including the three areas of support carried out under theme verse –
“Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.” Galatians 6:10
- WELSDisasterRelief.org
- Follow WELS Christian Aid & Relief on Facebook
- WELS.net/relief
Ministry resourceEnjoy the MLC College Choir singing Away in A Manger.
Next timeWe close out 2022 with a look at the best of WELSTech throughout the year.
Get involved* Add comments * Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net * Join the WELSTech community: + WELSTech Google Group + WELSTech on Facebook + WELSTech on Pinterest + WELSTech on Instagram * Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net * Contribute to the #WELSTech Twitter conversation * Follow us on Twitter – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper * Share with the Diigo group welstech
On today’s WELSTech Wendy Kuschel shares a preview of her upcoming session on communication planning happening at the WELS National Conference on Lutheran Leadership, and Martin chats with Nicole Balza about the Forward in Christ December feature on favorite Christmas hymns. You’ll want to explore the fun, interactive online experience they’ve created!
The interviewMartin and Sallie talk with Wendy Kuschel, Senior Communications Coordinator for St Mark Ministries in Green Bay, WI, about her upcoming session at WELS National Conference on Lutheran Leadership on Creating a Congregational Communications Plan.
You can still register for the Leadership Conference through December 5. It’s happening January 16-18, 2023, at the Hilton in Chicago, IL.
- Clearstream – Church texting
- Canva Pro free for non-profits – Graphic design
Ministry resourceMartin joins Nicole Balza on this week’s Together Video Update to talk about the Forward in Christ Favorite Christmas Hymns survey results. Check out the December magazine and the interactive Christmas hymn experience at forwardinchrist.net.
Picks of the week* + Check out Canva tutorials on YouTube including the Storytelling for Non-Profits playlist * Ridiculously easy LED Light Strips!
Community news & feedback Join the WELS Technology Team – We’re hiring a Systems Administrator * 2023 Awake Alive Conference – January 13-15, 2023, in Mankato, MN * Google for Education’s research report, The Future of Education* * Upcoming Christmas concerts + Martin Luther College – December 3 at 7:30 pm and December 4 at 4 pm + Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary – December 11 at 3 pm and 7 pm
Next timeThe WELSTech Christmas special will feature an interview with Pastor Dan Sims from WELS Christian Aid and Relief.
Get involved* Add comments * Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net * Join the WELSTech community: + WELSTech Google Group + WELSTech on Facebook + WELSTech on Pinterest + WELSTech on Instagram * Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net * Contribute to the #WELSTech Twitter conversation * Follow us on Twitter – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper * Share with the Diigo group welstech
WELSTech is back with our Incredibles of EdTech series. We welcome Rachel Feld to the discussion of multi-purpose tools that would make Elastigirl proud. MLC Spring registration is open, there’s still room for you at the Lutheran Leadership Conference, and picks of the week includes buttons for all things, including starting your car, and a […]
Thanks for tuning in to WELSTech! This week we have fun graphic design tools to share, both free and fee-based, which do the heavy lifting when it comes to creating social media graphics which look professional. The rest of the show is packed with goodies including Bible study resources, an affordable classroom document camera, Leadership […]
WELSTech is coming to you this week from the offices of WELS Technology West, a.k.a., Sallie’s living room, as Martin and Sallie enjoy the rare circumstance of being in the same place for the recording. Today’s topic is brainstorming, and we have a myriad of tools to assist with the process. There are also multiple […]
Welcome back to WELSTech listeners and to a very special returning co-host, Gail Potratz. Our discussion focus of the day is school technology planning. We have an exciting announcement about (more than one) lectionary in Google Calendar as well as picks to improve your focus and to create tech plans and more, with flair. Plus, […]
It’s a happy day on WELSTech when we welcome back Rachel Feld and Jason Schmidt for a new school year season of edtech-focused discussion! We have an incredible theme for the year, and we kick it off with a discussion of instructional design frameworks. Rachel has a site which makes instructional videos easy, Jason is […]
Welcome back to the most awesome, cool, hip WELSTech podcast. We’ve packed this episode with lots of goodness, including interactive flat panels in the school and church, an open-source bibliography generator, live streaming guidance, and Google Classroom for Catechism. No doubt, it’s da bomb diggity! The interview & discussion Interactive Flat Panels – Chris […]
The Tech-Enhanced Ministry summer series on WELSTech draws to a close this week with a discussion of the good and the bad of choosing to live in a particular vendor’s space, be it Google or Apple or Microsoft. There are also new options for creating QR codes and reasons to use them in ministry. Video […]
This week’s WELSTech discussion is all about Mobile and the apps that support ministry, the latest installment of our Tech-Enhanced Ministry series. We also explore some lesser known iPhone settings, a slick power strip replacement, and a collection of education app tutorial links. The discussion Mobile – The convenience, versatility, and plethora of ever […]
The Tech-Enhanced Ministry series continues with today’s episode of WELSTech, and Martin and Sallie share their favorite tech for being productive. Today’s show also includes discussion of photo albums for events or projects, smart bulbs, video production training, and media resources to support Bible lessons. The discussion Personal Productivity – A common thread throughout […]
Personal Learning Networks (PLN) are the topic of this week’s WELSTech as we march through our summer series on Tech-Enhanced Ministry. Listen for familiar and new tools for managing your network and curating information. Martin made one of the newest his pick of the week because he was so smitten. Sallie’s got you covered for […]
July kicks off with a continuation of the WELSTech summer series, Tech-Enhanced Ministry. In this episode we concentrate on Personal Knowledge Management (PKM). Plus, there’s lots to recap from last week’s WELS Education Conference including a slick conference app, digital citizenship resources for faculty, parents, and students, and a Ditch That Textbook inspired digital escape […]
The WELSTech summer series Tech-Enhanced Ministry continues this week with a discussion of data management for the church and school office. Google drive rolls out keyboard shortcuts, Martin’s watching YouTube ad-free, and you can learn how to build a digital escape room. Sounds like a fun summer! The discussion Data management – Martin and Sallie […]
Summer has arrived on WELSTech as we begin a new series titled Tech-Enhanced Ministry. This week we talk all angles of project management including portfolios, cloud tools, and frameworks. Martin has a shortcut pick, and we field questions regarding the new Christian Worship hymnal. The discussion Project management – Martin and Sallie kick off the […]
You’re in for a treat – a WELSTech like no other! Martin and Sallie are joined by Jason Schmidt for a mashup discussion of open learning, project management, WiFi access, and summer enrichment. And, for the first time, we close the show with an interview of Dr. Cindy Whaley, icing on the cake of our […]
Spring has finally arrived on WELSTech, and with that comes graduation season. We are excited to hear from two soon to be assigned seminary seniors about their tech in ministry research projects. We also have outreach ideas, technology curriculum, event updates, security hardware, and library software recommendations to share. The discussion Seminary Senior Theses – […]
Tune in to this week’s WELSTech for an update on the work of WELS Special Ministries including new technology advances for reaching out to those in prison and the need for volunteers to assist with the effort. Martin is upping his keyboard ante with a gamer model that isn’t very quiet. Details on the upcoming […]
We’re talking web sites on this week’s WELSTech, and we’re joined by WELS Web Developer, Tim Sinclair. This episode also includes information security guidelines for congregations, book recommendations, and a recap of the recent XR Festival sponsored by Christ in Media. Geeks will be especially excited by Martin’s incremental backup pick! The discussion Congregation Web […]
Not quite a three-hour tour, but Rachel Feld and Jason Schmidt have us thinking of desert islands on today’s WELSTech. Rachel shares details on her upcoming WELS Education Conference presentation, plus there’s a fair share of Google goodness, tools for mass communication, and a real book, complete with that new book smell. Join the conversation! […]
On this week’s WELSTech we talk with Beth Taticek from Lutheran Women’s Missionary Society (LWMS) about the tech that makes LWMS tick. Sallie’s under the weather so Martin flies solo and shares his pick of the week as well as events, resources, and community recommendations and questions. The discussion LWMS – Martin and Sallie welcome […]
WELSTech headlines with a discussion of tools to keep you productive, wherever you are. Also in this episode, learn about a great blog to follow for ministry tech topics, organizing passwords, taking smart notes, and live streaming devices. The discussion Top productivity tools – Martin and Sallie each share the 5 tools that keep them […]
This week on WELSTech we discuss techniques and tools to manage scheduling calendar events with ease. In addition, we tour WELS Online Yearbook, play some Wordle, expand some text and unpack the community feedback mailbag. And it’s Thursday!?! The discussion Calendar management – Martin and Sallie discuss frustrations and best practices for calendar and meeting […]
WELSTech welcomes co-hosts Rachel Feld and Jason Schmidt along with interviewee Dr. Phil Huebner. “Dr. Phil” previews his upcoming WELS Education Conference presentation on the current teen crisis and its tie to technology. We also have news from the IRS, windows power tools, highlighted links, and refreshing water to wash it all down. The discussion […]
On WELSTech this week we welcome 2022 with a deep dive into an exciting new tech-in-ministry worship planning solution, Christian Worship: Service Builder. Additionally, we announce a new podcast around weekly sermon preparation, Martin has a foldable keyboard which Maxwell Smart would appreciate, and we share a bookkeeping software recommendation. The interview Christian Worship: Service […]
Year 14 of WELSTech is in the books. Tune in for Martin and Sallie’s favorites from 2021! Events Subscribe to WELSTech e-News Martin is blogging WELSTech video is back starting with Episode 663 Sallie is a Grannie, and you can meet our youngest WELSTech fan on Episode 667 2021 included a WELSTech book discussion of […]
The WELSTech Christmas week special this year features Nicole Balza, and she updates us on all that’s happening with Forward in Christ magazine and especially with their digital offerings. Merry Christmas WELSTech-ers! The interview Two years in – Martin and Sallie welcome Nicole Balza, who many will recognize from the Together video update, but you […]
WELSTech welcomes the Advent and Christmas season with 5 ways to share the good news of our Savior’s birth. Also listen for ideas for building your church bulletin, Martin’s latest hardware pick (with a wire), and tools for telling the next generation. Plus, Sallie’s go-to video editor saves the day, and we announce the Bible […]
We’re back with another lively edition of WELSTech featuring the co-hosts with the most – Rachel Feld and Jason Schmidt. Jason shares details about his upcoming WELS Education Conference presentation, Rachel isn’t losing her keys, and Martin shares an online video creation tool. Plus there’s job opportunities, professional development, and much more to explore. Join […]
WELSTech this week answers the why, what, who, how and where questions around policies and procedures for church and school. There’s also much to share about Adobe, the iPad mini, Christmas concert date announcements, and free tools for organizing goals and meetings. Plus, the WELSTech mailbag is full! The discussion The time is now – […]
This episode of WELSTech is all about web design. Listen for tips and areas of focus to enhance your ongoing website efforts, web designer leads, if you choose to go that route, a color pallet tool, and an online conference topic about digital outreach. Plus, Sallie is searching tabs and Martin’s getting rid of distractions. […]
In this episode of WELSTech we’re introduced to PKM, an organization method for notes, research, and ideas. In addition, we’re talking about humane technology, sharing Kindle books, and prayer options in the YouVersion Bible app. Plus Martin gives us a mini-German lesson! The discussion A new acronym – Martin shares insights regarding Personal Knowledge Management […]
Welcome to the season opener of WELSTech! We’ve packed this special episode with our favorite edtech guest hosts, exciting announcements about the upcoming WELS Education Conference, a first-hand review of the iPhone 13, lots of Logitech love, and a new Christian Worship digital lectionary. All this, and you can consume it in either audio or […]
On WELSTech this week, Sallie and Martin continue their review of the book Eat That Frog! by discussing the ABCDE prioritization approach from author Brian Tracy. A new debate begins – Trackpad vs Mouse. Be sure to chime in. Also, an announcement about the future of WELSTech…video. The discussion: Procrastinate on purpose – The discussion […]
We continue our review of Eat That Frog! with a look at the 80/20 rule as well as future oriented thinking. Martin and Sallie have fun with Siri, and we find a great infographic on free stock photography. The discussion: Look to the future – Martin and Sallie discuss chapters 3 & 4 of Eat […]
On this week’s WELSTech, Martin and Sallie begin their summer book discussion with a look at chapters 1 & 2. Martin starts bullet journaling, and Sallie is all about the next exit. Plus, we have community feedback and the hymn of the day! The discussion: Goals and plans – Starting at the beginning with a list […]
This week on WELSTech, Martin and Sallie are side-by-side at WELS Center for Mission Ministry for the kickoff of the summer book series. Martin’s picks have health and safety in mind, and the discussion also includes both ebook and audio media tools.
The discussion: We hope you’re hungry – The WELSTech Summer 2018 series will focus on the 3rd Edition of Brian Tracy’s book, Eat That Frog!: 21 Great Ways to Stop Procrastinating and Get More Done With Less, and the related Workbook.
Picks of the week: * Audible * ROAD iD * How To Set Up Medical ID on Your iPhone
Ministry resources: How to get more out of Kindle for iPhone and iPad
Community feedback: * Pastor Peter Hagen suggests a podcast promo page on the WELSTech Wiki * Check out the new WELS app
Featured videos: Meet the Author of Eat That Frog!, Brian Tracy, in this short video, Q&A: How Can I Overcome Procrastination?
Coming up on WELSTech: Episode 554 – Martin and Sallie talk about chapters 1 & 2 of Eat That Frog! – Set the Table & Plan Every Day in Advance. Warning: There may be pen and paper involved! Release date: Wednesday, June 20.
Get involved: * Add a comment * Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net * Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net * Contribute to the #WELSTech Twitter conversation * Follow us on Twitter – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper * Share with the Diigo group welstech * Join the WELSTech community: + WELSTech Google Group + WELSTech on Facebook + WELSTech on Google+ + WELSTech on Pinterest + WELSTech on Instagram
The Gird Up! podcast is featured on this week’s WELSTech as Martin and Sallie are joined by Charlie Ungemach to discuss why a podcast just might be a viable ministry tool for you. Sallie also shows off her new “mobile” podcast studio!
The interview & discussion: Ministry Podcasts – Martin and Sallie chat with teacher Charlie Ungemach about the ideas and efforts behind the Gird Up! podcast (Pippa | Facebook). Started in November 2017, the podcast byline is “Exploring what it means to be a man of God.” With over 50 podcasts released, Charlie shares tips and tricks for getting started and maintaining your own ministry podcast.
- Audacity
- Garage Band
- Adobe Audition
- WordPress PowerPress
- Ripl Pro
- How to Podcast: The Ultimate Guide to Podcasting
- How to Start Your Own Podcast
News in tech: * Apple’s WWDC 2018 highlights little things adding up, especially in iOS12 * BibleWorks is closing June 15
WELS now: * WELS Missions on Facebook * WELS Night at Miller Park
Picks of the week: * 50 Tips for Better Videos – Article | Infographic * A Whole New Mind by Daniel Pink
Ministry resources: Search WELS Online Yearbook to locate churches when you travel. And you’ll especially enjoy this Google Map of all WELS Organizations.
Community feedback: A virtual baptism?
Featured videos: 5 Ways To Stay Safe on Public WiFi
Coming up on WELSTech: Episode 553 – As WELSTech shifts gears for Summer, Martin and Sallie kick off a new book discussion series full of frogs! Release date: Thursday, June 14.
Get involved: * Add a comment * Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net * Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net * Contribute to the #WELSTech Twitter conversation * Follow us on Twitter – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper * Share with the Diigo group welstech * Join the WELSTech community: + WELSTech Google Group + WELSTech on Facebook + WELSTech on Google+ + WELSTech on Pinterest + WELSTech on Instagram
The end of the school year doesn’t have to be just something to “survive.” Jason Schmidt joins WELSTech this week to share some projects that turn passive moving watching students into creators. He also brings another robot pick to compliment Sallie’s tip to combat gadget filth.
The discussion: End of school activities – Jason Schmidt, Technology Director for the Omaha-area Bennington Public Schools, shares ideas from a recent presentation of his on engaging students in activities to usher out the school year. Additional end-or-year ideas and a downloadable Resource Pack are available from John Spencer.
News in tech: The FBI wants you to reboot your router
WELS now: Time is running out to submit your ideas for presentations at WELS Education, Technology, and Leadership Summit 2019 – May 31, 2018 deadline
Picks of the week: * SparkFun Inventor’s Kit for micro:bit * How and why you should be cleaning your phone and other electronics * High Intensity Interval Training and Heart Health + Intervals app for iOS
Ministry resources: Video Conferencing Tools for Bible Study
Community feedback: * From the WELSTech Google Group discussion of live streaming, Bob Meiter from Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Carmel, IN shared his documentation on AV Broadcasting and Framing Cameras * As a follow up to WELS Freedom for the Captives initiative, Pastor James Behringer shared Protect My Ministry bundles
Featured video: Jason’s micro:bit pick of the week is the subject of two cool videos – Product Showcase: SparkFun Inventor’s Kit for micro:bit
Introducing the BBC micro:bit – BBC Make It Digital
Coming up on WELSTech: Episode 552 – Martin and Sallie talk with Charlie Ungemach from the Gird Up! podcast and share other ministry podcasts and blogs. Release date: Friday, June 8.
Get involved: * Add a comment * Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net * Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net * Contribute to the #WELSTech Twitter conversation * Follow us on Twitter – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper * Share with the Diigo group welstech * Join the WELSTech community: + WELSTech Google Group + WELSTech on Facebook + WELSTech on Google+ + WELSTech on Pinterest + WELSTech on Instagram
Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary senior Julius Buelow joins this episode of WELSTech to talk about his thesis on the benefits or distractions that technology brings to the table for a seminarian. Martin announces the launch of the new WELS App, and Sallie bids farewell to WELSTech Studio West.
The interview & discussion: Deep thinking – As we prepare to celebrate Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary graduation later this week, Martin and Sallie conclude the senior seminarian interview series by talking with Julius Buelow about his thesis, Biblical Text Messages: The Effect of Bible Software on Seminary Students.
WELS now: * WELS Education, Technology & Leadership Summit call for presenters closes May 31 * Tune in for graduation events at Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary + May 24 – Call Service at 10 am & Commencement Concert at 7 pm + May 25 – Graduation at 10 am * List your skills and find skilled workers on the WELSTech Skills site
Picks of the week: * A FAST way to help guests feel welcome [Infographic] * Register now for EDT8011 Dynamic Classroom Presentations and other summer offerings from Martin Luther College Continuing Education
Ministry resources: WELS App Launches
Community feedback: Grants and Resources
Featured videos: Enjoy the MCL Graduation recap video, He Called Some to Be.
Celebrate our Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary with this beautiful flyover footage.
Coming up on WELSTech: Episode 551 – Jason Schmidt wraps up our edtech school year of shows with a look at creative end-of-year activities. Release date: Wednesday, May 30.
Get involved: * Add a comment * Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net * Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net * Contribute to the #WELSTech Twitter conversation * Follow us on Twitter – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper * Share with the Diigo group welstech * Join the WELSTech community: + WELSTech Google Group + WELSTech on Facebook + WELSTech on Google+ + WELSTech on Pinterest + WELSTech on Instagram
Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary senior Jason Zuehlke joins WELSTech to talk about his thesis on reaching those who make up the Millennial Generation with the Gospel. We also get an update from Pastor Brock Groth on his UnderstandChristianity.com project and some exciting new content.
The interview & discussion: Make new friends – Martin and Sallie continue a series of interviews of senior students at Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary. This week, Jason Zuehlke shares details of his research and senior thesis titled Evangelizing Millennials: Studying Millennials to Understand How Relationships through Friendship Evangelism are the Best Way to Bring the Gospel to Their Culture.
WELS now: * Tune in for graduation events at Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary + May 24 – Call Service at 10 am & Commencement Concert at 7 pm + May 25 – Graduation at 10 am * WELS Education, Technology & Leadership Summit call for presenters closes May 31 * Kingdom Workers is hiring + Copy and Social Media Manager + Senior Director of Programs
Picks of the week: * Google Tour Creator * How to reclaim space after upgrading to Windows 10 April 2018 Update
Ministry resources: Chronology of Jesus’ Life and Ministry
Community feedback: Join the Facebook WELS Intersections group for discussions of Mail Chimp verses Constant Contact and much more
Featured video: Partners in AI – Microsoft Build: Cortana + Alexa Demo.
Coming up on WELSTech: Episode 550 – Wrapping up the Seminary Senior series, Martin and Sallie talk with Julius Buelow about his research into the effects of Bible software usage on seminary students. Release date: Wednesday, May 23.
Get involved: * Add a comment * Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net * Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net * Contribute to the #WELSTech Twitter conversation * Follow us on Twitter – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper * Share with the Diigo group welstech * Join the WELSTech community: + WELSTech Google Group + WELSTech on Facebook + WELSTech on Google+ + WELSTech on Pinterest + WELSTech on Instagram
Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary senior Bill Schubert joins the WELSTech conversation to share his thesis on reaching those who make up “iGen” or Generation Z. Sallie shares a cool Facebook framing tool, while Martin provides information about how a recent European Union regulation might affect your church or school.
The interview & discussion: The newest generation – Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary senior Bill Schubert shares insights from his senior thesis, The Importance of Impacting iGen: Ministering to Generation Z through Websites and Social Media.
WELS now: * WELS Education, Technology & Leadership Summit call for presenters closes May 31 * Mark your calendars for upcoming graduation events + Martin Luther College - May 11 – Commencement Concerts at 4 & 7:30 pm - May 12 – Graduation at 10 am & Call Service at 2 pm + Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary - May 24 – Call Service at 10 am & Commencement Concert at 7 pm - May 25 – Graduation at 10 am
Picks of the week: * Make your own Facebook Frame * Twitter for Windows 10 is a Progressive Web App (PWA) – Get it here
Ministry resources: GDPR Guidance
Community feedback: * New normal: Today’s best practices for passwords * Join the WELSTech group discussion on camera selection for live streaming worship * Relay from Republic Wireless
Featured video: Following up on last week’s MLC Day, watch Thankathon Thank Yous.
Coming up on WELSTech: Episode 549 – Continuing the Seminary Senior series, Martin and Sallie talk with Jason Zuehlke about his research on outreach to millennials. Release date: Wednesday, May 16.
Get involved: * Add a comment * Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net * Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net * Contribute to the #WELSTech Twitter conversation * Follow us on Twitter – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper * Share with the Diigo group welstech * Join the WELSTech community: + WELSTech Google Group + WELSTech on Facebook + WELSTech on Google+ + WELSTech on Pinterest + WELSTech on Instagram
Celebrate MLC Day with WELSTech! Martin and Sallie talk with creatives from Martin Luther College who are using social channels and multi-media to spark this special day. Straighten up, enhance your productivity with the picks of the week, and use OneNote to design a digital Escape Room. Tune in for this plus news, feedback, and events!
The interview & discussion: Martin Luther College Director of Public Relations Bill Pekrul and Videographer Jon Witte give Martin and Sallie behind-the-scenes details of the activities planned for MLC Day on May 2, 2018. There’s a new MLC YouTube channel plus a brand new jiggle written by the talented interviewees. Check out the online media kit for lots of ways you can celebrate MLC!
News in tech: Google Redesigns Gmail – Here’s a List of Amazing New Features
WELS now: * Mark your calendars for upcoming graduation events + Martin Luther College - May 11 – Commencement Concerts at 4 & 7:30 pm - May 12 – Graduation at 10 am & Call Service at 2 pm + Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary - May 24 – Call Service at 10 am & Commencement Concert at 7 pm - May 25 – Graduation at 10 am * WELS Education, Technology & Leadership Summit call for presenters closes May 31 + We want YOU to submit a speaking topic!
Picks of the week: * Six Tips to Help Save Yourself from Poor Computer Posture * Text Expander + Download Text Expander files for Ministry | Christian Worship | Christian Worship Supplement
Ministry resources: Create a Digital Escape Room with OneNote
Community feedback: * A secure web is here to stay * The 5 Best Secure Email Services for 2018 * Enter the Christ in Media Institute’s #ShareTheSavior sweepstakes by end of day May 2, and you may win a $25 Target gift card * Check out sample church promo videos + Hope Lutheran Church in Leander, TX + Christ the Lord Lutheran Church in Clearwater, FL
Featured video: Enjoy the MLC Day Jingle.
Coming up on WELSTech: Episode 548 – Seminary senior Bill Schubert shares insights from his senior theses into ministering to Generation Z. Release date: Wednesday, May 9.
Get involved: * Add a comment * Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net * Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net * Contribute to the #WELSTech Twitter conversation * Follow us on Twitter – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper * Share with the Diigo group welstech * Join the WELSTech community: + WELSTech Google Group + WELSTech on Facebook + WELSTech on Google+ + WELSTech on Pinterest + WELSTech on Instagram