Episcopal Church Foundation Vestry Papers - for leading congregations

Being the beginning of Lent, I’m reading a lot of blog and Facebook posts about Lent. What it's all about, what people are giving up, and of course, Lent Madness.

Pastor Keith Anderson’s post “Give Up Your Telephone for Lent”, speaks to the opportunity we have to expand our Lenten practice, using social media to touch people and build relationships.

Anderson writes:

“Give up your telephone for Lent. It sounds crazy, doesn't it? I mean, how will people reach you if they need help, want to share good news, or need pastoral care?”

Is this a crazy idea? Maybe not if you are a digital native. (Digital native refers to people who grew up with the technology that became prevalent in the latter part of the 20th century and continues to evolve today.)

What’s more likely to sound crazy to a digital native is giving up social media for Lent. It’s a generational thing – based in large part on what you are used to and comfortable with. Yet, if your ministry involves communications, giving up social media at one of the most holy times of the year, might not be the best idea. In fact, Anderson suggests:

"Giving up social media for Lent" is not a neutral position, it is a net loss for ministry and the communication of the Gospel—ironically at a time of the year when that communication is heightened in our church observances in extra worship services and study groups.

“We should be more present in social media during Lent, not less.”

Perhaps a Lenten discipline might be to explore opportunities to use social media to strengthening relationships or build new ones:

“…make social media your Lenten devotion: leave supportive comments, offer prayers and blessings when needed or asked for. Pray for the people in your Newsfeed and Twitter stream. Share meaningful quotes pictures, or videos.”

What’s your experience using social media as a part of your Lenten practice?