Smart Pastor

So far I have covered using iTunes and IWantSandy. Today I want to cover another high tech tool….your cell phone.

I would guess that 90% of pastors have cell phones and just recently have I started to see the power of my phone beyond making and receiving calls.

photo credit: Alan_D

Here are some of the ways I have started to use my cell phone beyond the traditional means.

1. With IWantSandy. You can send a text message to an e-mail so now if you are at an off site meeting, you can text message an action item in. Just make Sandy a contact on your phone and your phone number/provider address as an incoming source in Sandy.

2. With Google SMS. This is a great way to get quick information when not by a computer. Try it out here. Some day soon this is going to be very powerful.

3. With maps. If you have an internet enabled phone, you can get maps to find out where to go. If you use Google maps for mobile, you can even have a crude GPS like ability to figure your location.

4. For taking pictures. I have been surprised how many photo-worthy moments there are if you realize you can take photos on a device you have with you. (Idea…if you have a camera phone and are in an automobile accident take pictures of the scene.)

5. For Taking Notes. Many of todays phones have a note-pad like feature on them. So go ahead and just walk into your coffee shop meeting with just a cell phone.

6. As an alarm clock. I keep mine in the bathroom so it forces me to get out of bed as soon as the phone alarm goes off to prevent stirring my wife.

There are dozens of more ways you can use your cell phone to be more productive. If there is a function you like to use on your computer, chances are there is a way to do it on your phone. (Or will be soon!)

Unfortunatly, for many phone carriers there is a charge beond your normal usage charge to text message, send a photo, or use the mobile web. But for many churches, if you can reasonably justify the ministry value behind it, it can be reinbursed. Additionally, you may choose to pay for this extra expense out of your pocket so you can carry one less item with you.

Cell phones - not just for calling any more. Another high tech tool for the productive pastor.