How houses of worship can make the most of technologies and solutions designed to overcome challenges to communication and foster more engaging worship experiences
By Carrie Kaumans
House of worship leaders considering an assistive listening system may be wondering where to begin, which technology and system is right for their congregation, and how to optimize the audio experience for worshippers. Following are best practices for implementing assistive listening systems in religious facilities.
Let’s first define assistive listening. Assistive listening allows listeners to engage, connect, and feel included by delivering audio directly to their ear without amplifying ambient noise. An assistive listening system is technology that delivers audio directly to the listener. The audio (microphone, auxiliary output, computer audio, or other audio source) is delivered via a transmitter to a receiver which sends audio direct to headphones, hearing aids, or cochlear implants, enabling individuals to hear clearly.
Understand regulatory compliance requirements
While houses of worship are largely exempt from needing to offer assistive listening devices under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), there are exceptions. Houses of worship in California and Texas, for instance, are not exempt from ADA requirements for assistive listening. Leaders at religious facilities in these states should seek guidance from an AV consultant or integrator familiar with ADA requirements who can advise them accordingly. Spaces adjacent to houses of worship, such as a co-located school, auditorium, theater, or hall may be required to offer assistive listening devices.
Legislative changes could require houses of worship to offer more accommodations, including assistive listening, in the future. Houses of worship also may choose, in the spirit of justice, inclusion, and community – the tenets of many faiths – to provide assistive listening systems. Know what is required based on location, size, and capacity of the space to ensure compliance.
Gather input from the congregation
House of worship leaders evaluating assistive listening systems should consider the preferences of their congregations. How tech savvy are worshippers? Do they wear hearing aids or cochlear implants or use other assistive devices? Who is most likely to use an assistive listening device and when/where will they use it? What are the primary challenges to clear communication among worshippers?
If a house of worship is affiliated with a school, consider the needs and preferences of educators and students as well. It is essential to get input from end users so the system meets their needs and enhances their worship experience.
Invite congregants to respond to surveys or online polls, solicit input through social media, email campaigns, and in meetings to better understand what they know about assistive listening systems and how likely they are to use one.
Select a system that meets current and future needs
Consider when, where, and how an assistive listening system will be used. Will the system primarily be used for assistive listening? Does it need to support interpretation? Is confidentiality a concern, i.e., will assistive listening devices be used during pastoral counseling meetings or confessions? Is the house of worship planning an expansion, upgrade, or other capital improvement project? Does the system need to be portable for use during mission trips and off-site retreats, to provide church tours, or to facilitate communication behind the scenes at events, fundraisers, and performances? Is a BYOD (bring your own device) system preferred to one that includes receivers congregants can borrow as needed? There are different assistive listening technologies and systems available. Consult an AV integrator or online recommendation tool to determine which technologies and systems will best meet current and future needs.
Optimize the listening environment
Assistive listening systems filter out ambient sound so listeners hear only clear audio directly in their ears, but houses of worship should still take steps to minimize noise and other factors that make hearing challenging. They could install upholstery and carpeting to soften ambient sounds, provide “cry rooms” and family-friendly spaces where children’s voices and fidgeting will not distract other congregants, and ensure there are microphones for worship leaders, lectors, and choir members to use.
Other ways to improve acoustics: Consider the configuration and placement of speakers and, as much as possible, minimize noise from HVAC systems, outdoors, and adjacent spaces. Turn on closed captioning on video screens and provide song lyrics, readings, and other information pertinent to the service in writing (i.e., in worship books and bulletins available to congregants during services and/or via email and the church website in advance). Offer services in different languages or provide interpreters.
Promote the assistive listening system
The best assistive listening system for any house of worship is the one that is used. Ensure worshippers know an assistive listening system is available and understand how to use it. Post signage in the church and share information on the parish website, in bulletins, newsletters, and on social media. QR codes make it easy to download additional information and assistive listening apps.
Talk about the assistive listening system at the start of services, provide a live or video demonstration, and lead by example – utilize the system! Place receivers in a convenient, accessible location. Ensure church leaders, ushers, greeters, and volunteers know how to operate assistive listening devices and can assist users as needed. Solicit feedback from users and make adjustments as necessary to optimize usage and listeners experiences.
Implementing an assistive listening system in a house of worship is a thoughtful and impactful way to foster inclusivity and ensure clear communication for all congregants.
By understanding the benefits of assistive listening and selecting the right system, and actively promoting the system, religious leaders can significantly enhance the worship experience.
These best practices not only help meet the current needs of the community but also prepare for future developments, reflecting the values of accessibility and inclusion central to many faith traditions.
Carrie Kaumans is corporate channel marketing manager at Listen Technologies, a leading provider of advanced wireless listening solutions for 25 years. www.listentech.com
