A Digital Detox for Advent: Rediscovering Presence in a Screen-Saturated World

As ministry leaders, we often find ourselves at the center of a paradox. We strive to create spaces of connection and reflection, yet we too are vulnerable to the relentless pull of screens and notifications. Our congregations and youth—perhaps even we ourselves—may be longing for a reprieve from the constant hum of digital distraction. What better time to embrace a digital detox than during the season of Advent, a season that calls us to quiet expectation, intentional preparation, and deep reflection?

Advent, the season of waiting for the Light of Christ, invites us to slow down, to make space for what truly matters. It is an ideal time to step away from the noise of the digital world and foster meaningful connections with God, one another, and ourselves.

Why a Digital Detox?

Digital detoxes—intentional times of stepping away from screens—are more than just a trendy wellness practice. They can be transformative acts of discipleship, particularly in an age where technology tempts us to be "like God," striving for omnipresence and omniscience.

Whether it’s youth glued to TikTok, families interrupted by constant emails, or ministry leaders overwhelmed by notifications, the challenge is the same: digital distraction disconnects us from the people and places God has put right in front of us.

As Seth Troutt reminds us, “Only God can handle omnipresence and omniscience. We are called to live bound, limited, and local—fully present in the places God has placed us.” By fasting from our screens, we resist the pull to be everywhere at once and reclaim the joy of being here, now.

Advent: A Season of Digital Detoxing

In a world driven by algorithms and constant updates, the church can offer a countercultural witness by becoming a sanctuary of stillness and reflection. As Pastor Darren Whitehead author of “The Digital Fast: 40 Days to Detox Your Mind and Reclaim What Matters Most” writes “Fasting from screens allows us to turn our attention back to what truly matters—our relationships with God and others.”

This Advent, how is your ministry creating space for quiet retreat and reflection?

Here are a few ways a digital detox could intersect meaningfully with Advent:

For Ministry Leaders:

• Consider a personal digital fast one day a week during Advent. Use this time for prayer, scripture reading, or even an unplugged walk to reflect on God’s presence.

• Disconnect during key ministry planning times to focus on hearing God’s voice amidst the season’s busyness.

For Congregations:

• Host a “digital-free sanctuary night” in your church. Encourage participants to leave their phones at the door and experience a quiet space for prayer, reflection, and scripture.

• Offer a sermon series on Sabbath in the Digital Age, exploring how practices like digital detoxing align with Advent’s themes of rest and waiting.

For Youth Groups:

• Take inspiration from Yas Galarza’s youth digital detox: plan a themed overnight retreat where phones are locked away, and the focus is on prayer, creativity, and connecting with one another.

• Try an activity like “Bible in one hand, newspaper in the other,” using Advent scripture to pray for the world and God’s coming Kingdom.

Practical Tips for a Digital Detox This Advent

Set Clear Boundaries - Choose specific times to be offline. For example, start with 30 minutes each evening for family or prayer time.

Encourage Congregational Participation - Frame digital detoxing as a shared spiritual discipline, not an individual challenge.

Provide Creative Alternatives - Offer hands-on activities like art, journaling, or prayer walks to replace screen time.

Start Small - Begin with a single evening or half-day of detox to ease people into the practice.

Make It Joyful - Celebrate the freedom found in being fully present—together.

Let Us Know

At Ministry Forum, we believe in the power of community to inspire and equip ministry leaders. How are you creating space this Advent (or another time during the year) for quiet retreat, sanctuary, or reflection? Are you experimenting (or couple you be inspired to experiment?)with digital detox practices in your church or youth group?

We’d love to hear your ideas and experiences! Share them in the comments so we can encourage one another in community.