Episode 040 – Oct 8 2008

This week on WELSTech the focus is social networking and how online connections can be utilized for ministry. Martin and Sallie talk with Andy Theimer, a WELS member who has started an online group aimed at connecting WELS business people.

Podcast: Download (28.8MB)

The discussion:

Social networking inside the congregation – Martin and Sallie explore ways to extend your ministry efforts online via social networks. From file sharing to gathering information via web forms to two-way interaction about Bible class topics on discussion forums, using web 2.0 tools to connect with members and connect members to other members with like interests (Mom’s groups, etc.) will become more and more acceptable and expected in this digital age.
- Create your own social network at Ning.com

The interview:

inWELS (21:31) – Andy Theimer, WELS member and entrepreneur, joins Martin and Sallie to share information about a group he’s started on the business-oriented social networking site LinkedIn called “inWELS”. Listen and learn more about the benefits of being part of “inWELS”.
- Learn more about LinkedIn
- Read the LinkedIn blog

The tidbits:

Picks of the week (40:11)
- Online language lessons with a social twist – www.livemocha.com
- Real-time web site analytics – www.woopra.com
WELS.net feature (48:46)
- WELS Yearbook – www.wels.net/jump/yearbook
Of interest (51:08)
- WELSTech contest – Extended to midnight, Sunday, October 12th
  - Phone in your comments (414-375-2334) to this question: What digital devices do you use in your classroom or Bible class?
  - All comments will be entered in a drawing for a $15 gift certificate to the WELSTech Podcast store – www.cafepress.com/welstech
- www.k12onlineconference.org
Community feedback (53:46)
- Cindy Krueger from Shepherd of the Hills in Lansing, MI shared a “green” link to ClimateSaversComputing.org
- Ryan Rosenthal from Faith Lutheran School in Fond du Lac, WI suggested we dedicate a show to computer maintenance
- Pastor Scott Mews from Amazing Grace in Milwaukie, OR is a first time listener – Welcome to WELSTech!
- David Schumann from Peace in Janesville, WI is enjoying mind mapping with FreeMind, featured in WELSTech Episode 002
Coming up on WELSTech (57:48)
- Episode 041 – All about newsletters – For your congregation or school as well as the synod’s Together newsletter
- Episode 042 – Redesign – Why and how to redesign your web site plus the inside scoop on the upcoming WELS.net redesign

The featured artist:

We close with music of Wisconsin Lutheran College’s Revelation music ministry (www.revelationwlc.com) – God of Wonders from their We Walk By Faith CD (59:05)