Tedrick Woods, a bi-vocational pastor, demonstrates an exceptional level of versatility. He leads his church, Living Word Fellowship, in a unique hybrid worship model. Based in Austin, Woods preaches remotely three out of four Sundays to his Dallas congregation, making the 200-mile trip to Dallas for in-person services on the first Sunday of each month. His church has embraced this hybrid format, recognizing the benefits of combining virtual and in-person worship.
The Journey to Hybrid Worship
Living Word Fellowship was founded in 2015, with Woods receiving support from the Dallas Baptist Association and Exciting Singing Hills Baptist Church. After relocating from Hurst to Dallas, the church’s membership saw fluctuations, with some members unable to make the move. However, the congregation remained resilient, even through significant challenges such as Woods accepting a position in Austin and the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.
When the pandemic hit, the church shifted entirely online, meeting via Zoom from March to July 2020. Eventually, they adopted their hybrid model, meeting in person once a month and holding virtual services on the other Sundays.
Hybrid Church: A New Way Forward
For Living Word Fellowship, a hybrid church isn’t just a pandemic-era adjustment but a permanent structure. The model has allowed the church to adapt to the realities of geographical separation while maintaining a sense of community. Woods delivers his Zoom messages from Austin and assists at Sweet Home Baptist Church. The congregation remains engaged through Sunday services and regular prayer, Bible study, and text message connections throughout the week.
While the hybrid format demands preparation and commitment, Woods believes it serves his members’ diverse needs by offering a more inclusive and flexible worship experience.
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Dallas church brings new meaning to hybrid worship
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