For the past few days, I've been glued, more so than usual, to Tweetdeck. I'm watching tweets stream by from #ga220 (Presbyterians) and #GC77 (Episcopalians).
Both denominations have been holding national-level meetings. Lots of major issues being raised, discussed, and shared via social media, notably Twitter.
Given my commitment to communication ministry, it's a special thrill for me to see people "getting" in near-real time how social media makes participation possible for people unable to attend IRL. Extra-special thrill to see how social media enhances ecumenism by allowing anyone to observe what's going on.
And super-extra special thrill to see information about
D069 "Social Media Challenge" stream in from #GC77.
Here's a quote from the resolution, written by Joseph P. Mathews (
@JosephPMathews) with input from Colin Chapman (
@colinmchapman), Scott Gunn (
@scottagunn) and Erin Warde (
@TheRevEJ).
These new tools are not simply tools to advertise our congregations but are necessary tools which require understanding if we are to participate in mission in the 21st century. Since its inception the church has embraced and worked with new and emerging technologies, and we must approach these tools with a desire to learn rather than with fear, anxiety, and rejection. The church has historically used technology to supplement and build interpersonal relationships. Social media offer opportunities to build relationships before meeting in person and strengthen relationships in interim spaces between meetings.
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| D069 "Social Media Challenge" |
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| Such a kidder, that ELCA Bishop Mike Rinehart! |
