What does an online pastor do?

An online pastor shepherds the people who engage with a church online. The job is moving watchers into groups, classes, and in-person community, overseeing online volunteers, and tracking engagement, not producing the stream.

At what size should a church hire an online pastor?

Use a volunteer or existing staff member under 750 people. Move to part-time between 750 and 1,500. Hire full-time past 1,500 or whenever your online audience is growing and you want groups and discipleship for them.

Can an online pastor work remotely?

Yes, for the community-focused roles. The job is relational. Mariners Church's online pastor lives in another state from the church.

Should an online pastor be a tech person or a pastor?

A pastor. Hire someone strong with people and groups who is comfortable with technology, not a producer. Your online ministry amplifies whatever your church already does well.

Where should the online pastor report?

Wherever the current objective lives: communications for outreach, small groups for discipleship, campus leadership for a full online community. Expect it to move as the ministry matures.