Concerns Grow Over Live Streaming Church Services Amid Rising Violence

Churches are facing increasing scrutiny over the practice of live streaming their services, with some leaders urging a halt to the broadcasts for security and spiritual reasons. This call comes in light of recent violent incidents targeting places of worship in the United States.

Explainer Charlie Kirk Overview

In August and September 2025, several tragic events unfolded, including the fatal shooting of two students at Annunciation Catholic Church in Minneapolis on August 27, and the assassination of Christian leader Charlie Kirk in Utah on September 10. Most recently, on September 28, at least four attendees were killed at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc Township, Michigan. These incidents have raised alarms about the safety of congregations.

Critics of live streaming argue that it can provide potential attackers with critical information about church layouts and congregation vulnerabilities. "When a church live streams its service, a potential attacker can study videos of the service and find the layout of the sanctuary," said Beth Brelje, an elections correspondent for The Federalist. "We don’t know if video feeds have been used in planning attacks, but there is no reason to provide evil actors with such access."

The practice of live streaming gained popularity during the COVID-19 pandemic when many churches were forced to close their doors. While some congregations embraced the technology to maintain connections with their members, others have begun to question its long-term impact on community engagement.

Supporters of live streaming argue that it allows individuals who cannot attend in person—due to health issues, distance, or other commitments—to participate in worship. They point out that it can help maintain connections with former members and allow families to share significant events, such as baptisms, with loved ones who are far away.

However, Brelje contends that the convenience of streaming can detract from the communal experience of church. "If you can pause your church service to answer the phone, you are just watching a show. Streaming is no longer keeping us connected. It removes us from the sacred and has become an excuse to avoid fellowship," she said.

Many church leaders emphasize the importance of in-person participation for fostering community. "Church is more than passively watching a sermon and some worship songs from a distance. It requires participation," said Pastor John Smith of a local congregation. He added that church is a place for healing, growth, and serving others, which cannot be fully realized through a screen.

Concerns about privacy also arise with live streaming. Members may be unaware that they are being recorded, leading to potential discomfort regarding personal information being shared publicly. Some church boards are considering alternatives, such as offering audio-only streams or requiring passcodes for access.

Instead of relying on live streams to attract newcomers, many church leaders advocate for more direct community engagement. Suggestions include organizing carpooling for members who cannot drive, visiting those unable to attend services, and participating in local events to foster relationships outside the church building.

As discussions continue, churches are encouraged to weigh the benefits and drawbacks of live streaming. The focus remains on fostering fellowship and community, which many believe is the core mission of any congregation.