As technology continues to transform communication, Catholic dioceses across the U.S. are reimagining the way they reach the faithful.
As part of its effort to strengthen communication between priests, parishes and the public, the Diocese of Orange has partnered with myParish app to put the latest Catholic news, parish events and daily scripture readings directly into the hands of parishioners through their smartphones.
“myParish app is a wonderful vehicle for pastors to more directly connect with their parishioners,” said Ryan Lilyengren, communications director for the Diocese of Orange. “The app is an easy-to-use and convenient way to stay engaged and informed.”
myParish is free to download and provides parishioners with prayers, readings and homilies, along with bulletins, Mass and confession times, social media links and updates from Most Rev. Kevin Vann, Bishop of Orange.
Content for the app is customizable for each parish. Users can receive push notifications and find parishes near their work and home through the app’s search functions.
Within the Diocese, 47 parishes have active myParish app users. St. Timothy Catholic Church in Laguna Niguel boasts the highest number of users; more than 400 parishioners have downloaded the app since it was first unveiled by parish staff in September. The app was announced through bulletin announcements. Parish staff then provided resources and assistance after Mass, instructing parishioners how to download the app and guiding them through its many features.
Feedback has been positive, with parishioners feeling more engaged and connected to not only their church, but to their faith.
“Parishioners really like it,” said Steven Angel, office manager at St. Timothy Catholic Church. “We feel that any avenue of communication is worth exploring, and myParish app has certainly been beneficial.”
Through the myParish app, users can listen to OC Catholic Radio and get the latest news updates from OC Catholic, the Diocese’s official digital and print news publication. The app also features a page focused on updates from Christ Cathedral and the approaching dedication on July 17, 2019.
myParish is available for download on iOS and Android mobile devices. A new version of the app was recently launched, with a new feature allowing users across the Diocese to stay connected to their parish via direct messaging.
To download the myParish app, search myParish in the app store or text APP to 88202. Once the app is downloaded, tap the 3 horizontal lines at the top left corner on your screen, tap “Find a Parish” and search “Diocese of Orange” or your local parish.