Churches Still Embrace Online Services Post-COVID

Five years after COVID-19 shuttered in-person worship, many churches in Pittsburgh and beyond continue to offer online services, turning an emergency measure into a lasting part of ministry. St. Joseph the Worker Parish, which includes St. Maurice Church in Forest Hills, is one of several local Catholic churches maintaining regular livestreams. The digital services—led by parishioners like organist Michael Burke, who formed a “Stream Team” during the pandemic—allow remote participation and keep members informed of church news and community updates.

Burke, without prior video production experience, outfitted multiple churches with a mix of mobile and fixed cameras, internet cabling, and audio equipment to bring services to viewers online. Despite ongoing technical challenges like varied building acoustics, the livestreams have become an essential tool for reaching elderly or transportation-limited members, especially after parish consolidations moved some congregants farther from their churches.

St. Joseph the Worker isn’t alone. The Diocese of Pittsburgh, along with individual parishes like Resurrection Parish and Holy Family Parish, continue to livestream Mass. St. Paul Cathedral’s services draw thousands of views on the diocesan YouTube channel.

Other faith traditions in the region also embraced digital ministry. Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church installed AV systems in 2013, years before the pandemic, and has since expanded its reach through online broadcasts and a partnership with the Pittsburgh Faith and Family channel. Temple Emanuel in Mt. Lebanon began posting services and educational content during the pandemic and now includes tech funding in its annual budget. Rabbi Aaron Meyer emphasized that digital access especially appeals to younger congregants and must remain a priority.

For many faith communities, online services have become more than a convenience—they’re a key tool for inclusion, outreach, and future growth.

For more details, refer to the original article on The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.