RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN RELIGION ONLINE & OFFLINE

CAMPBELL

RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN RELIGION ONLINE & OFFLINE

The nature of computer-networked society means conventional forms of connection, hierarchy and identity management must adapt or be reconfigured as they are transported online. Researchers have carefully explored how involvement in online communities may inform members understanding of what it means to be part of a religious community or church and how this may alter expectations of how community should live offline. The result of much of this research has been a transformation in how religious communities are conceived of online, seeing as they function quite differently than traditional religious institutions and structures (Campbell, 5).

I think individuals are adapting in terms of recognizing religious communities now extend online. Campbell’s suggestion that what we think of as a religious community has to change as technology alters the worship space has already been proven by my Gospel & Global Media class this week. 

My classmates brought up interesting points surrounding religious communities and social media . . .

John mentioned the concept of participation in Eucharist via social media. I was initially bothered by this idea. Upon further reflection I thought about the value this practice could bring to someone who was not physically able to leave their home.

Marshan mentioned the concept of an ONLINE PRAYER REQUEST site that allows his congregation to feel held by their faith community when they are in need of prayer and cannot make it to church.

Dr. Mary mentioned the gift of being able to say goodbye to a loved one because of the advent of media and the connectivity it provides.

“Researchers have suggested that bringing religion online encourages religious experimentation in ways that may lead to alternative, highly personalized narratives of faith (Campbell, 8).” This particular quote rang true for me on a personal level. I am someone who supports the LGBTQ community. I attempt to bring awareness to religious communities regarding the need for equality and acceptance of those who have been historically marginalized by organized religion. I have found the concept that personalized narratives of faith online shifting social and religious views to be a realistic and achievable goal. In the cyber world many topics previously unaddressed in religious establishments can now be discussed.

Perhaps it is the anonymity associated with online narratives that frees people to explore/challenge conventional thinking or established church doctrine. My first creative endeavor (or self narrative) surrounding social media and religion was generated prior to the last presidential election. Washington State was voting whether or not to approve Referendum 74, an initiative that would provide the right of legal marriage to same sex couples.

Having the ability to respond in a creative way that offered a different perspective while simultaneously remaining in community with my classmates, instructors and church leaders was a gift of spiritual balance for me. Additionally, I now have the gift of knowing that someone (I may never meet) could possibly have a shift in perspective because my very personal narrative lives in the cyber world.