CHURCHES across Merseyside are using the latest technology to connect with their congregations.
The use of internet downloads and podcasts has also encouraged more people to actually attend services, say church leaders.
Steve Evans, who runs the podcast service at Bridge Chapel Christian church in Liverpool, says the online sermons have led to a surge in worshippers attending in person.
The progressive church, which focuses on traditional teachings of the Bible for all cultures, has had close to 600 people tuning into weekly updates.
He said: "Large numbers of new people are coming down to the church and joining our congregation simply because of the internet downloads and podcasts.
"The sermons are playing a huge role in attracting people of all ages, especially youngsters who are searching for their spirituality.
"People talk about church numbers falling, but those who are making efforts to connect with people through things like podcasting are experiencing rapid growth.
"All our congregation has to do is subscribe to the service and every time they plug their mp3 player in, the updates will automatically be transferred."
The Bible is also available to buy as a 77-hour mp3 and the Vatican's own radio show is streamed on the internet to download to music players.
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