Zoom is the video conferencing tool we've chosen as our preferred option to connect our staff, groups, teams, and Bible study classes.
- Zoom is free to use as a participant and for those hosting meetings up to 40 minutes. Paid accounts offer longer meetings and more features.
- No account is needed to join a Zoom meeting.
- Join Zoom meetings from your phone, tablet, or computer.
- For those without cameras or microphones, a call-in-only option is available for all Zoom meetings.
- The Zoom meeting host will provide meeting information including the meeting link, the password, and call-in-only numbers.
- Test what it's like to join a Zoom meeting.
- Learn more about how to use Zoom on the Zoom website.
Two-Zoom Conference Room/Classroom Option
By now, we’ve had a chance to try out Zoom. We’ve worked out a lot of the bugs, we’ve resolved the security issues by requiring a password for all Zoom meetings, and we’re getting used to this new type of gathering. But one thing’s for certain: many of us need more time together than one, free, 40-minute Zoom meeting allows.
After hearing about several options and considering the best next step, we’ve come up with a recommendation we think will work great. It still uses the free, 40-minute Zoom option, but instead of one Zoom meeting, we’re suggesting two, back-to-back meetings with a short intermission in-between. Here's an example of how it could work for your group:
Example: Sunday Morning 11 a.m. Bible Study:
- 10:50 a.m. Open the Zoom call, welcome participants, and allow time for people to join and to chat.
- 11:00 a.m. Teach/discussion
- 11:30 a.m. Break for coffee, bathroom (exit the meeting)
- 11:40 a.m. Rejoin the meeting (same URL/phone number) for lesson wrap up, discussion, prayer, announcements, etc…
- 12:00 p.m. Finish the class but don’t end the Zoom yet. Use the final 20 minutes for additional discussion, chats, and connection.
- 12:20 p.m. End the Zoom until next time.
We’re hoping you’ll give it a try, and let us know how it works. If after a couple of weeks you need a different option, let’s talk. We’re committed to helping you find the best way to connect.
Additional Questions
For more information about how to use Zoom, email us at connect@bonairbaptist.org.