Religion is one of the few things that remained the same throughout history, despite all the technological advancements and breakthroughs. That is, until now. Online churches have already made their place among the religious people, but VR is about to take that to a whole new level. What if you could go to your place of worship without leaving your home?
What is VR?
Virtual Reality is a technology that uses 360-degree imaging to simulate a new environment right before your eyes. The reason for its growing popularity is the fact that it can be used in a number of different ways, depending on what you want to visit. For example, you could travel the world, sightseeing all the beautiful spots, or visit a classroom where you can watch a world-famous professor give its lecture in physics. The same goes for churches – you could visit a church from the other part of the world that you might not be able to visit in reality.
What can VR do for religion?
It has been proven that VR has a much stronger effect on people than other media, for example, TV or books. This is because, with VR, you are not simply watching something, you are experiencing it for yourself. One of the cases where VR has proven itself very useful to church is with BelieveVR. BelieveVR makes a type of a documentary by about people of faith who are, in different ways, overcoming problems and spiritual challenges. Instead of watching these series, the viewers were completely immersed in them via VR, which left them feeling uplifted and moved.
How can you use VR in your church?
There is a number of ways VR can be incorporated into churches to make matters more convenient. For example, you can live stream Mass for everybody who is not there. That way, even people who weren’t able to make it can watch and enjoy as if they were there with you. You can also apply this to smaller groups so that you and your friends could gather even though you live miles away from each other, and discuss things you want to know more about. Another example is to use VR for group retreats, which are usually very expensive, so your church can save up a lot of money by just putting on a VR set. That way you can travel, enjoy all the activities and listen to guest speakers without spending any money. Lastly, you can use VR to visit different churches, maybe churches in other countries that you always wanted to visit but never got the chance. This way, you can enjoy the experience of being there, without ever having to move.
Will VR replace traditional churches?
There should be no fear that VR will ever replace traditional churches and completely change religion as we know it. However, it is a very powerful and useful tool that churches all around the world can use to bring people closer to them and their teachings. Likewise, people can use VR to bring themselves closer to religion and go through experiences that otherwise might not be possible.
