Practical Understanding and Application of Online Church: Focusing on Worship Forms and Operational Methods

This study explores the characteristics and types of online churches by analyzing the forms and operational methods of worship. It also examines key practical issues related to these churches in order to deepen understanding and enhance practical application. The study presents three main findings. First, through case analysis of major online churches, it identifies core elements that distinguish different types of online churches— such as the presence and significance of in-person worship, methods of online worship sharing, and the use of virtual reality technology. Based on these elements, the study categorizes online churches into four types. Second, it proposes three models—general, specialized, and extended—to support the effective operation of worship in online churches. These models aim to facilitate a nuanced understanding and application based on the type of online church. Third, the study examines key practical issues related to worship forms and operations in three areas: the use of worship-related technology, ethical concerns, and missional transformation. Regarding technology, the main issues include setting clear purposes and criteria for adopting technology, promoting interaction among members, and bridging the digital divide. Ethical concerns focus on personal data protection and security, copyright issues related to worship content, and ethical challenges specific to each type of worship. From a missional perspective, the study highlights changes in physical worship spaces, the need to enhance the sense of presence in online worship, and the strengthening of the proclamatory aspect of worship.