Creating a Pre-Service Checklist for Church Live Streaming

Church live streaming has become an essential part of ministry, but even seasoned tech teams know things can go wrong quickly. From audio mishaps to dropped connections, the margin for error shrinks when your service is live. A pre-service checklist can prevent last-minute scrambles and keep your worship experience distraction-free.

Why a Checklist Matters

Live streaming involves multiple moving parts—gear, software, internet, people. Without a systematic process, even small oversights can derail the stream. A pre-service checklist creates consistency, distributes responsibility, and gives your team a framework to troubleshoot with confidence.

What to Include in Your Church Live Streaming Checklist

1. Technical Equipment Setup

• Power on all cameras, switchers, mics, and monitors
• Verify all devices are plugged in and connected properly
• Check camera angles and focus for all planned shots
• Confirm lighting is adjusted for both stage and camera

2. Audio Check

• Test each mic: lead pastor, worship team, ambient room
• Balance audio levels through your mixing console or software
• Run a test recording or live preview to check clarity
• Ensure audio is synced with video

3. Software and Streaming Platform Setup

• Launch streaming software (OBS, vMix, BoxCast, etc.)
• Load the correct service scene or layout (e.g., sermon slides, lyric overlays)
• Verify platform connections (YouTube, Facebook, church website)
• Log in to each platform and confirm credentials

4. Internet and Network Check

• Run a speed test (target upload speed: 5 Mbps minimum)
• Disconnect non-essential devices from the streaming network
• Confirm Ethernet connection is secure (avoid Wi-Fi for critical feeds)

5. Slides and Media Preparation

• Load all presentation slides (lyrics, announcements, sermon points)
• Cue videos or countdown timers in the correct order
• Preview transitions and timings

6. Team Roles and Communication

• Confirm each team member knows their responsibility
• Establish hand signals or a communication method (radios, chat app)
• Remind team of service flow and key transitions

7. Final Pre-Stream Checks (10–15 Minutes Before Go-Live)

• Test final audio and video output
• Confirm stream preview is live on platform
• Post pre-service message or countdown to engage viewers
• Ensure backup devices (camera, audio source) are ready if needed

Optional Add-Ons

Depending on your setup, your checklist might also include:

• Battery check for wireless devices
• White balance adjustment for video clarity
• Closed captioning tools activation
• Online host confirmation for chat moderation

Conclusion

A live stream reflects your church’s voice to the world. When it runs smoothly, it supports worship, welcomes newcomers, and extends your ministry reach. A clear, repeatable church live streaming checklist transforms a high-pressure process into a consistent and confident routine. Build it, use it, and refine it—and your team will be ready to hit “Go Live” with peace of mind.