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.
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