Local church uses technology to host Christmas Eve services

LA CROSSE, Wis. (WKBT) — 2020 has been a tough year for a lot of people, and everyone has found ways to pivot, including the English Lutheran Church in La Crosse. This year, they’re shaking things up and hosting two virtual and a streamed Christmas service.

To Stream The Services Click Here. 

“Oh my goodness, lots of planning,” said Pastor Becky Goche.

When putting together plans for Christmas services back in October, Pastor Becky knew pivoting would be required.

“And we knew that it wasn’t going to be the same,” said Goche.

The church found ways to bring typical in-person services to the computer screen.

“We’ve hired a videographer during COVID so we’re doing a lot more things online and with video in general,” said Interim Senior Pastor Glen Bickford.

And it’s been a big hit.

“It’s wonderful. The church continues whether they’re in worship here, or in their homes,” said Bickford.

Tonight, many will log on for Christmas Eve services.

“We have three services this evening, two of which have been recorded earlier and then one live stream with our partner congregation at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church,” said Goche.

While many are logged on, their physical presence will be missed.

“Normally when we’re gathered here in person we have three big services on Christmas Eve, I mean, this whole place is filled with hundreds and hundreds of people,” said Goche.

Along with the packed house, usually comes generous offerings.

But Pastor Becky says this year she’s seen more generosity than ever. So in turn, the church has been helping other local organizations.

“We work with a number of organizations, the Warming Center is near and dear to our heart, WAFER, Hunger Task Force,” said Goche.

The list goes on. And tonight, so do the services.

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