If you have kids, let them know the expectation you have for them during the call.

Do you want them in the room? Are they playing quietly in another room? Computer speakers pick up a lot, so do be aware of background noises.
Could be great to have kids involved for part of the call but not the whole call depending on age.
Kids can definitely be cute, but they can also be distracting and people might want to share heavier stuff, so please keep this in mind.
For some families, the spouses may need to alternate being on the Zoom call each week because one needs to be in the other room watching the kiddos, which is fine. We would encourage you to still both watch the sermon though!

Don’t multitask. Assume you are sitting down for coffee with the person 1:1. Treat this call with the same respect. Don’t let the screen enable you to feel less involved. People can tell when you are engaged or not.

Download and install Zoom before 10 AM on Sunday! You can get it here for free.

Ideally call in from a computer, not your phone. But phones will work.

Try the link ahead of time. Depending on the tool being used, you may have a few extra steps for set up, so plan for that.

Make sure your camera and audio are working.

Be aware of what is in the background of your camera. You may not want some items lying around.
Know where the mute button is and how to use it. Ideally, I recommend not using the mute button unless you do have a lot of background noise.
Have your tea, water, beverage of choice next to you for the call so you don’t have to get up during the call.
Ideally don’t walk and carry your computer. If you need to do this, it might be good to turn off the camera.
Make sure your computer is plugged in and/or fully charged, so you stay connected throughout the call.
Please don’t call in while driving. Call in from a quiet, safe space.
Participate just as if you were in your leader or host’s living room for a normal GC gathering.

Come Expectant!

Just because we are listening to a sermon online and talking over a video chat platform doesn’t mean that the Spirit can’t encourage each one of our hearts with the Gospel! It doesn’t mean we can’t encounter him.
Pray going into our time together on Sunday morning.