Jon Gross, a producer for Multi-Language Productions focusing on Latin America, joins us to discuss the evolving landscape of digital outreach. From his beginnings learning video production in Chile to implementing AI tools, Jon shares insights on using technology effectively to share the gospel and support ministry work globally.

Key Takeaways

* Academia Cristo: Jon explains how Academia Cristo uses online resources and social media to reach millions weekly in Latin America, training local leaders to start and lead church groups in their own communities.

* Social Media Outreach Trends:

* The expectation for high-quality video content in online advertising has increased significantly, even in regions like Latin America.

* Facebook remains a primary platform for ads, while Google Ads (including YouTube) offers different ways to reach people actively searching for information.

* Consistent Messaging: Maintaining a clear, consistent brand identity (style, message, frequency) across platforms helps people recognize and connect with your ministry.

* Targeted Advertising: Platforms like Facebook and Google allow for specific targeting based on demographics (age, location, gender) and interests, but defining your target audience and purpose clearly is crucial for effective campaigns. Consulting marketing professionals can save time and resources.

* AI in Ministry:

* AI tools like Chat GPT can significantly save time on administrative tasks (e.g., writing emails, summarizing data, brainstorming sermon themes/parts), freeing up time for personal interaction and core ministry work.

* AI is a tool controlled by the user; it doesn't replace the human element, pastoral care, or theological discernment. Users must guide it and evaluate its output.

* Learning to write effective prompts is key to getting useful results from AI. Customizing AI tools (like building a personal GPT) can make them even more effective.

* AI can enhance, rather than hinder, creativity by handling tedious tasks or offering new perspectives.

* Respond.io: This platform allows for automated messaging workflows via WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, etc. Academia Cristo uses it to guide new contacts through introductory courses before connecting them to live classes, replacing a more expensive custom app. It can also be used to gather information about people's beliefs and questions before they attend an in-person class.

* Advice for New Missionaries: Prioritize immersing yourself in the local culture – learn by walking, talking, and meeting people in person before implementing technological solutions. Understand the community's needs first to define your ministry purpose. Technology is a tool to support the mission, not replace relational ministry.

Resources & Readings Mentioned

* Organizations/Platforms:

* Academia Cristo

* Multi-Language Productions

* Books:

* Writing on the Wall: Social Media - The First 2,000 Years by Tom Standage

* Brand Luther by Andrew Pettegree

* Growth Hacker Marketing by Ryan Holiday

* Building a StoryBrand by Donald Miller

* Tools:

* Facebook Ads

* Google Ads

* Chat GPT

* Respond.io

Common Terms and Links on Jesus and Jetlag

* WELS = Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod (wels.net)

* WLS = Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary in Mequon Wisconsin (wisluthsem.org)

* Collection of Confessional Lutheran Essays

* BWM = WELS Board for World Missions

* CELC = Confessional Evangelical Lutheran Conference

* CICR = Commission on Inter-Church Relations of the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod

* Vicar = a pastoral intern in the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran system

* Wisconsin Lutheran Quarterly (WLQ) - A theological journal, published by Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary, that aims to serve pastors and theologians with scholarly articles, book reviews, and reflections on contemporary theological and pastoral concerns.

* Pastoral Studies Institute of Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary

* Asia Lutheran Seminary

All commentary, statements, and discussion on this podcast reflect the knowledge, insight, and experience solely of the individuals presenting and featured on the podcast.

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