Digital Media and Internet-based Communication in Mission Services during the Pandemic

Abstract

This study describes the difficulties faced in mission services during the COVID-19 pandemic and the solutions for missions during the pandemic. This case study was conducted at Badan Misi GaTe Surabaya with a descriptive qualitative approach. Data were obtained through written interviews which were deepened through virtual discussions with informants. The study concludes that there are obstacles in mission services during the COVID-19 pandemic due to social distancing which resulted in service stagnation. The breakthroughs as a solution are the implementation of digital media-based and social media-based missions combined with platforms that support the continuance mission services amid the COVID-19 pandemic and provide new directions in future mission services. Research Contribution: This study encourages missiologists to further explore the mission paradigm in the disruption era due to technological development or a pandemic by utilizing the advanced development of communication technology and the development of internet-based social media.