Altar Live
Overview
Altar Live is a specialized online platform focused on helping faith communities create and host engaging and interactive virtual church services, meetings, and events. It aims to replicate the communal aspects of in-person gatherings in a rich online environment. The platform combines live streaming capabilities with unique interactive features such as video-based small groups (called 'Tables' or 'Watch Parties'), live chat, polls, Q&A sessions, and integrated options for giving.
Its core value proposition lies in fostering genuine connection and active participation beyond simple passive viewership of a live stream. Altar Live emphasizes creating a sense of presence and community by enabling attendees to see and interact with each other in smaller, more intimate group settings before, during, or after the main service or event. This approach differentiates it from standard streaming platforms by adding significant layers of social interaction and engagement tools specifically tailored for church and faith-based community contexts.
By providing comprehensive tools for both the main broadcast and subsequent fellowship activities, Altar Live helps organizations enhance their online outreach, connect with a broader audience, and maintain robust community engagement for remote attendees. The platform aims to make online gatherings more personal, participatory, and connected. While not primarily marketed with a heavy emphasis on 'AI features,' its strengths lie in its sophisticated interaction design and community management capabilities tailored to its niche.
Key Features
- Interactive video 'Tables' and 'Watch Parties' for small group discussions and fellowship.
- Integrated live streaming with engagement tools like live chat, polls, and Q&A.
- Host and Greeter roles to manage events and welcome attendees.
- Anonymous mode option for attendees seeking privacy.
- Screen sharing functionality within events.
- Analytics dashboard to track attendance and engagement metrics.
- User and member management features for community organization.
- Support for multiple campuses under one account (Campus plan).
- API access for custom development and integration (Campus plan and up).
- Integration with various church management systems and giving platforms.
Supported Platforms
- Web Browser (desktop and mobile responsive)
- API Access (available on higher-tier plans)
Integrations
- Planning Center
- Church Community Builder (CCB)
- Pushpay
- Tithe.ly
- Stripe
- YouTube Live
- Facebook Live
- Vimeo
- Resi
- Boxcast
- OBS
- Wirecast
- Zoom
- Zapier
Pricing Tiers
- Up to 100 Max Concurrent People
- Unlimited Events
- Unlimited Staff Users
- Anonymous Mode
- Tables & Watch Parties
- Greeters & Hosts
- Screen Sharing
- Polls, Q&A, Chat
- Integrations
- Analytics
- Email Support
- Up to 500 Max Concurrent People
- All Community Features
- Multiple Campuses (add-on)
- Custom Roles & Permissions
- Developer API Access
- Dedicated Onboarding & Support
- Priority Email & Chat Support
- 500+ Max Concurrent People
- All Campus Features
- Custom Integrations
- Custom Features & Branding
- Service Level Agreement (SLA)
- Dedicated Account Manager
- Premium Support
User Reviews
Pros
Ease of use for both administrators and attendees. The 'tables' feature is fantastic for fostering community after the service. Responsive customer support.
Cons
Occasional minor glitches with video/audio, but support is quick to help. Would like more customization options for the event interface.
Pros
The ability to have face-to-face conversations in smaller groups (tables) is a game-changer for online church. Good integration with streaming services.
Cons
Learning curve for some older members of the congregation. Some desire more advanced analytics.
Pros
The watch party and table features are excellent. Staff are very responsive and helpful. The platform is continually improving.
Cons
The cost can be a factor for smaller churches. Some features are still developing.
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