After meeting Tony face-to-face, I was surprised at how humble and down-to-earth he was. With such drive and insight on the strategy for growth and organization of the Church, I expected a much more “forward” personality.
I was pleasantly taken back by a quiet, sincere man. I believe he’s one of those guys that constantly has his wheels spinning, determining the most efficient strategy for each obstacle that approaches him.
Tony Morgan has become an inspiration to thousands of pastors and followers of Christ. Published in numerous magazines and with a new book out, Killing Cockroaches, there is even more to learn from this blogger than the contents of his newly redesigned blog http://tonymorganlive.com. Posting articles about church leadership, strategy and growth, we have been encouraged, challenged and blessed by Tony’s writing.
Despite the busyness of starting a new position at West Ridge Church, Tony took the time to tell us more about himself.
Tell us three things about you, that your blog subscribers may not even know.
- I made the bowling team at Bowling Green State University…but then I quit the team.
- I met my wife when I was in 7th grade…and she’s stuck with me all these years.
- And, my left thumb is double-jointed.
When and why did you start blogging?
I started blogging about 4 1/2 years ago. Honestly, I blog for selfish reasons. It’s a way for me to journal my thoughts, learnings, experiences, etc. I also process ideas while I write, so it helps me think. It is also a discipline for me to continue to study and discover. The bonus is that it’s become a great tool to meet some fun new friends along the way.
What are your favorite three posts?
With a blog that covers leadership, marketing, research, technology, etc., what are you most passionate about?
I’m most passionate about life change. And, I happen to believe that we are more effective sharing the Gospel and helping people experience life change when we embrace leadership, technology, better communications, etc. I believe that because I’ve seen it happen with my own eyes. I guess since God gifted some people to be leaders, we shouldn’t be surprised to see him use leaders in his church. And, since God wants us to reach today’s culture, we probably shouldn’t be surprised that he can use technology and clear/creative communications to present the Gospel. I’ve stopped trying to put a box around how God uses people to reach other people.
What is your biggest pet peeve when visiting a website (or church website)?
Not being able to figure out when and where I can connect with the church. You’d be surprised how many times I visit a website and can’t find details on Sunday services. Just give me the basics. What times are your services? What will happen with my kids? What’s the address I can plug into my navigation system? What’s the topic? I’m getting “pet-peevy” just thinking about it.
What do you deem as the most vital part of a church’s website?
A clear vision and a clear ministry strategy reflected in a focused landing page with simple, intuitive navigation. We don’t need to tell the entire story with our websites. We just need to help people take their next steps. Of course, since most churches don’t have clarity when it comes to vision and strategy, it’s probably a little unrealistic for me to expect to see that reflected in their web strategy…but that’s probably a blog post for another day.
If you haven’t picked up his book, now is the time! Take caution though. If you embarrass easy, this probably isn’t the best route for you. I caught myself laughing out loud several times on a flight back from LA. But, more enticing than his wit, is the thorough, heart-felt, experienced journaling of a leader that longs to see the Church meet the potential Christ has for it.
As an avid tweeter, you can also follow him on Twitter for blog updates and the daily musings of our friend @TonyMorganLive. It’s one follow you won’t regret.
September 14th, 2009 at 3:45 pm
Tony, Thx for blogging your thoughts! I gain much insight from them! – Kevin
September 14th, 2009 at 4:04 pm
I agree, churches need to have vision clarity and central strategy in place, and everyone on board, before developing a technology strategy.
What communication technologies are used and how they are used should be as uniquely identifiable to the church as the vision itself.
Tony appears to be a champion for helping churches take the right steps in the right order. May his tribe increase.