How about a church that redefines community in the digital age? That is Churchome. This is not just a church. It is a movement that embraces technology to connect people with faith. It expands the traditional church experience.
Churchome began with a vision. Judah and Chelsea Smith wanted to create a new kind of church. This church would be accessible to a new generation comfortable with digital relationships. In 2018 they launched the Churchome app. It featured worship, teaching, community and service opportunities. It was met with skepticism. Now Churchome’s style of Sunday service has become the norm. The coronavirus pandemic accelerated the shift to online church. Churchome became an accidental pioneer.
The story of Churchome is rooted in Seattle. Judah Smith’s father Wendell Smith founded City Church in 1992. It started small with just 21 people. It eventually grew to thousands of members. In 2017 City Church was rebranded as Churchome. The new name reflected its growing reach beyond Seattle.
Churchome’s innovative approach has drawn attention. Its services have attracted celebrities. Justin Bieber, Kourtney Kardashian and Russell Wilson have attended. Judah and Chelsea Smith now based in Los Angeles lead the church. Their modern takes on Christianity have resonated with many.
Churchome has faced challenges. In 2020 Churchome was accused of requiring employees to tithe. An employee alleged that workers were pressured to donate 10% of their wages. Failure to do so could result in discipline or termination. Churchome denied these allegations. They stated that tithing is a voluntary act of worship.
Despite controversies Churchome continues to evolve. It adapts to the changing needs of its community. The Churchome app offers a space for connection. Users can stream sermons. They can join community chat rooms. They can digitally pray for one another. This digital outreach expands Churchome’s capacity. It allows more people to experience faith.
Chelsea Smith believes in the power of community. She says that Churchome helps people meet Jesus every Sunday. She hopes that churches worldwide will realize this is a viable way to do church. It expands capacity and resources. It allows them to reach more people.
Churchome embraces inclusivity. Its pastors say they love and accept everyone. This message has been key to their rise. It has made them popular with Gen Z and millennials.
The Smiths moved to Los Angeles. They purchased a home there as an investment in Churchome’s future. Baptisms have been held in the backyard swimming pool. The home reflects their modern aesthetic.
Churchome’s Instagram feed is carefully curated. It showcases their message of community and acceptance. They use social media to connect with followers. Churchome Global is run by an app-development company. It allows users to direct message one another. It also facilitates donations to the church.
Churchome is more than a physical building. It’s a global community. It connects people through technology. It embraces modern approaches to faith. It continues to evolve. Churchome remains relevant in a changing world.