With budgets tight, travel to other locations -- especially out of the diocese or across the country -- can be prohibitively expensive and time-consuming. A videotape of a prospective preacher would be a great help, says Tait, a former senior warden and search committee member. He stresses that he envisions a "live" delivery, in front of a congregation, not just a reading of a sermon in front of a camera. The search committee would want to see the congregation's responses as well as the preacher.

"Whether or not you are seeking a new position, it is a good way to check your delivery and preaching skills," says Tait.

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