Why Do United Methodist Churches Use Social Media

Social media is “forms of electronic communication (as websites for social networking and microblogging) through which users create online communities to share information, ideas, personal messages, and other content (as videos)” (Merriam Webster). When it is put that way, social media sounds like a good thing and some people would agree with that, while others think it is taking over the world in a negative way. Because of these opposing views, social media and the use of it has become controversial. On one hand, there are people that believe social media helps to better connect people. For example, in a TED Talks video, Megan Phelps Roper spoke of her experience growing up in the Westboro Baptist Church, a small extremist religious group

A Christian Perspective: Social media provides a way for Christians to connect with other Christians around the world allowing them to provide each other friendship, love and support. Christians believe strongly in the power of community, in fact, it is an understanding that one cannot change the world without interacting positively with others. Some Christians may live in remote areas of the world or in countries that are predominately non- Christian therefore, social media sites may allow them to connect and feel part of the Christian community regardless of their location.

Theology of presence in the author's theology of proclamation is derived from Hebrew 10:25, "Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another and all the more as you see the Day approaching." When the people love each other not only in words but deeds and embrace one another with encouraging lifting words the work, as a pastor, is less difficult. Being there for the members should never take the place of social media, texting, and or phone calls, because its' more valuable to be involved in a person life in the

I currently attend and work at a church with 2000+ regular attendees. We currently have over 40 small groups that meet on a weekly basis. Small groups are at the core of what we do. Beginning at age 3, we believe that the small group is THE place to grow more like Jesus and practice the “one anothers” with one another.

The community is a way for people to belong and be supported and often make long-lasting relationships. Several of Smarts’ dimensions contribute to the establishment of this physical sense of ‘belonging’. The Social Dimension speaks about contributing to the society through institutions and participating in community events. Through weekly attendance to mass, individuals can interact with others who share the same faith. In 2011, the National Catholic Church Life Survey found that there was over 3000 churches (within 23 Catholic denominations) across Australia, each of these holding a minimum of one mass a week (NCLS 2011). Regular involvement in the congregation and other religious practices helps to develop a church community beyond the superficial connection. This involvement ranges from youth groups and choirs to charity events and general participation in mass. The more the individual is engaged in these opportunities, the more connected they are to others. Practical Dimensions also contribute to the establishment of a religious community because the rituals and practical activities are fundamental for a practicing Catholic community. Ruth Powell (2011) stated that 3.3

Marquette University had many successes building its brand through a strategic social media strategy. According to the case study, members of The Office of Communications and Marketing supported and participated in the conception and planning stages to help structure an effective social media strategy. In addition to the research and information gathered internally, the university also engaged with a variety of audiences, not physically on the campus, to further extend its market research and brand. Marquette University’s marketing and communications team’s strategy for social media is focused on engagement, dialogue, bridging of information, and community. This strategy aligns with the university’s mission, “the search for truth, the discovery and sharing of knowledge, the fostering of personal and professional excellence” (”About Marquette: Our Mission,” n.d.).

(Daniels, 2010). There are Quakers of all ages, races and ethnicities, religious backgrounds, education, sexual orientation and gender. Today most Quakers blend in with society instead of adapting a pattern of speech or a way of dress like they did in the past. Daniels (2010), describes an emerging group, Convergent Friends, whose goal is to establish a Quaker renewal of postmodern day Quakers while keeping the integrity of the traditional beliefs. Daniels (2010), defined Convergent Culture as a shift for consumers to seek out new information and make connections with a wider community by utilizing the media i.e the internet. Convergent Friends utilizes the media to create a community that goes around traditional Quaker structures such as yearly meetings. The Ultimate goal of Convergent friends is to eliminate isolation of Quaker Communities by broadening their contact into the world.

In today’s society people are often times attracted to social media and technology which ultimately takes away or doesn’t promote an individual’s religion. In the Amish community, however, a major emphasis is placed on dedication to the church and helping people in the district. Even though trying to live without phones and computers would be difficult, it would be the most beneficial and life changing experience if one were to adopt Amish culture. The Amish may have a somewhat radical form of culture, however, their dedication to living with the bare essentials, emphasis on the Bible, and encouragement of helping their community members allow the Amish to focus and appreciate God more in a new

The article ends with a quote "Technology changes how people relate to each other, and that's what religion is concerned with." – Author Unknown. That quote sums up the article quite well as it discusses how the use of technology has affected religion, specifically church attendance and how followers interact at church. Due to the different interpretations of religion, the web has made it easier for like-minded people to connect with the emergence of new communities and faiths. The ease of access to religion, through modern technology, has also made people view online podcasts and view Bible quotes more often whilst maintaining a sense of community because many other people are doing the same thing.

This book provides a key trait churches must have in order to effectively marketing their church: Passion. The power of social media in essence is its digital word of mouth capabilities.

“Connectivity in a Church Community” concludes that the PSOC (Psychological Sense of Community) religiosity, social support and influence were of significant importance in church context. These variables were important markers for the individual’s well being and outlook in life. The thought of being connected with someone or having someone to walk with in the chaotic trying times is a comforting aid to those that are in need. The same is for the church body, and the individual church at large. The church needs to know that some one cares and is there not only in the good times and but also in times of struggle. Administrative leadership can be that comforting agent that propels the church through those times. Vahid Alaghband the founder and chairman of Balli KlÖckner states,

The recruiting and retention of new members is difficult to achieve because of the growing market of religious organizations. FACT 2008 survey had better explain the different aspects that could lead to an increase in church membership. The study pointed out various ways to increase membership, help integrate new members, impact leadership has on member’s incorporation, and how outside activities can help strengthen the participation of church members. Offering multiple service or different activities during the week, so families with tight work and sports schedules can enjoy the worship service, was one suggestion to help keep the participation of members active.

As we worked on the social media unit, I realized that I was learning applicable skills that would help me as the “Mormon Night” at the Seattle Mariners game coordinator. Each year I work with a representative from the Mariners sales department to promote this community event for LDS families in the Pacific Northwest. Over the years Mormon Night has grown from a simple Institute activity to having well over 3,000 fans attend our game last year. Working with the Church Public Affairs chairman, I formulate fliers and promote this event through Facebook. The skills I learned about using social media have already helped me improve our

If the church is motivated to be socially involved because of the need to make the ministry of church relevant, in order to be more effective in carrying out its mission, then the focus is not on the need of the person or community but, rather it is on the church achieving its missional goal. In this

connect with our audience” (von Rosen, 2014). She continues, “when it comes right down to it, that audience should be the one person you need - whether you are looking for a new employee, wanting to sell your product or hoping to woo donors for your non-profit. No matter what your end game, social media should be about that one person you need to reach out to today to create more business” (von Rosen, 2014).