Whether you're leading a small group, hosting a training, connecting with volunteers, or gathering students virtually, there are more options than ever to help you create meaningful online connection.
We've pulled together several of the most reliable and user-friendly platforms to help you get started.
A Few Tips for Better Online Meetings
- Keep meetings shorter and more interactive.
- Use breakout groups whenever possible.
- Encourage cameras on, but don't pressure participation.
- Have a leader or moderator manage chat and engagement.
- Follow up personally after meetings to build connection beyond the screen.
Ultimately, technology is simply a tool. Meaningful connection and intentional leadership are what make online gatherings impactful.
Zoom
Zoom remains one of the most widely used platforms for online meetings and virtual teaching environments. It's easy to use across computers, tablets, and phones, and works well for both small groups and large gatherings.
Why we recommend it:
- Reliable video and audio quality
- Screen sharing and breakout rooms
- Chat, polls, reactions, and whiteboard features
- Easy invite links for participants
- Great for Bible studies, trainings, prayer gatherings, and team meetings
- Free plan available for basic meetings
Helpful for: Teaching, staff meetings, leadership development, and interactive student gatherings.
Google Meet
Google Meet has become a strong option for churches, schools, and ministries already using Google Workspace or Gmail. It's simple, browser-based, and integrates easily with Google Calendar and Google Drive.
Why people like it:
- No software download required for most users
- Simple scheduling through Google Calendar
- Easy screen sharing and captions
- Familiar platform for students and educators
Helpful for: Small groups, coaching calls, parent meetings, and collaborative planning sessions.
Teams
Microsoft Teams is especially useful for organizations and churches managing ongoing communication, file sharing, and collaboration in one place.
Best features:
- Video meetings and chat in one platform
- Shared files and collaborative documents
- Organized channels for teams or ministries
- Strong security and admin controls
Helpful for: Collaboration, ongoing team communication, and organizational management.
Discord
Originally built for gaming communities, Discord has become a popular option for student communities and ongoing group interaction.
Why it works well with students:
- Persistent chat channels throughout the week
- Voice, video, and screen sharing options
- Easy community-building features
- Students are often already familiar with it
Helpful for: Student leadership groups, online communities, gaming nights, and ongoing discipleship conversations.
WhatsApp and GroupMe
While not full-featured teaching platforms, these apps are excellent for staying connected throughout the week through messaging, quick calls, reminders, prayer requests, and encouragement.
Helpful for: Communication, updates, prayer chains, and relationship-building.
More Than A Network
At NNYM, we're uniting youth leaders across the country to see every young person transformed by the story of Jesus. Together, we share ideas, strengthen one another, and pursue Jesus as we serve the next generation.