Torch, Summer 1984

In Need of Computer Assistance? by Dr. Rex M. Rogers P robably the most interesting and well-developed group providing computer-related help is the Christian Computer Users Association. Its president, Mr. Doug Voss, describes the association's function as "an information conduit for anybody that's a Christian." Founded in 1980 as a nonprofit corporation, its primary purpose is "to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ through the use of computers and computer science and technology ." The association actively helps churches to identify their information processing needs and to acquire appropriate computer systems and software. Nominal service fees and membership dues provide the support for their activities. An individual membership is $15 and entitles the subscriber to the CCUA News and other services. The News lists dates and locations of regular CCUA-sponsored seminars on computers in the local church. Christian Computing released its first issue in May– June 1984. The magazine's editor, Dr. Nancy White Kelly, desires to "inform any and all Christians who have an interest in computing." As a bimonthly publication , it seeks to become a "consistent source of 'Christian -oriented' computer information" providing reviews of church-management software, feature stories on the unique application of computers in Christian ministries, and columns like "Missionary Bits and Bytes ." The subscription price is $12 annually. The Church Computer Users Network was organized two years ago as a "database for information of interest to church people ." Rev . Kenneth Bedell who is the primary force in this effort publishes a quarterly newsletter updating computer developments and the network's activities . Church Growth Data Services is a business whose function is to bring computer technology to the ministry of the church . It regularly conducts seminars on "How to Effectively Use Computers in Your Church" and is active in developing new church applications for computer technology. A perspective of its services is available · in a helpful pamphlet entitled Church Computer Report. For further information, readers may wish to consult the following sources: Bedell, Kenneth. Using Personal Computers in the Church. Valley Forge, PA: Judson Press, 1982. Bedell, Kenneth and Parker Rossman. Computers: New Opportunities for Personalized Minis– tries. Valley Forge, PA: Judson Press, 1984. Clapp, Steve and Dennis M. Davis. The Third Wave and the Local Church. Champaign, IL: C-4 Computer Co., 1983. Christian Computer Users Association 1145 Alexander; S.E. Grand Rapids, MI 49507 (616) 241-0368 Christian Computing 72 Valley Hill Road Stockbridge, GA 30281 (404) 474-0007 Church Computer Users Network P.O. 1392 Dallas, TX 75221 Church Growth Data Services, Inc. 709 E. Colorado Blvd., Suite 150 Pasadena, CA 91101 (818) 449-4400 7