Gigabytes for the Gospel

Gigabytes for the Gospel is an annual weekend retreat to explore technology and the church. This year, in addition to exploring topics to help develop or improve your church’s web site we will discuss Social Media such as FaceBook and Twitter. How does Social Media fit into the ministry of the Church? How does it relate to your web site? What are the opportunities, problems and best practices for using Social Media?

All levels of knowledge and interest are welcome: from those who are just starting a church web site to seasoned geeks, from lay leaders to pastors. Anyone who is exploring how technology can be used in membership and evangelism will benefit from this conference. Come join us as we talk technology, share ideas, worship, sing and get to know others interested in technology and the church.

Buddy Ray: Webmaster for the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Georgia and Peachtree Corners Christian Church. Buddy has a master’s degree in Businesses Information Systems and began in the computer industry in 1976 as a programmer. By the advent of the web, Buddy was Executive Vice President of an internet development company, responsible for the design and development of such web sites as Airtran Airlines. Today Buddy teaches at Georgia State University and is Editor of www.techDrawl.com where he blogs about emerging technologies and companies. Buddy is a lifelong Disciple and recipient of the Layman of the Year award in Georgia for 2003.

Dean Phelps, Minister of Church Multiplication for the Christian Church in Indiana, will lead worship and music. Prior to entering ministry, Dean was an IT manager for Sara Lee Hosiery. He is a minister and programmer as well as an accomplished musician. His third CD, Give Us a Song, was released in 2008. He is the webmaster for two Indiana regional web sites and his music site, deanphelpsmusic.com.

Heath Coffey, Guest Services Coordinator at Christmount, is the Webmaster for Christmount. He is also responsible for all computer technology at Christmount. When not serving as resident Geek, Heath answers phones, makes reservations, and checks in guests. He has a BA in English and Religion/Philosophy. During his free time he is usually in front of his laptop or playing with his potter’s wheel.