Church 2.0: Go Forth and Multiply
In today’s hi-tech times, the Internet has both become a blessing and a bane. But for us Christians, we can turn this into a powerful tool not just to evangelize but to keep in touch with the rest of the family whenever, wherever.
I, for one, am glued to the Net as my work revolves around it. I work at home and the only office equipment I have is my MacBook, with Internet connection of course. But what amazes me is not that I can work from home; what amazes me is the almost limitless possibilities with which I can communicate with family, friends, and church members using today’s available technologies.
Web 2.0 is defined as the second generation of web applications, which allows for a more dynamic user participation, social interaction, and collaboration. Social networking websites are the perfect example of what Web 2.0 is about.
Social networking sites like Friendster, MySpace, Facebook, and the favorite of most ICS members, Multiply, have made quick connections possible, both literally and figuratively. Amazing how we can connect with old ICS members and church friends with just a few clicks of the mouse. A few minutes of browsing will take you to LA where Ptr. Jesse Dedel is right now. You can visit the Balistas’ humble abode in California and see how little Jannie has grown up or read Jiru¢s rants and raves about his studies. Look more into the heart of Ptr. Jerry as he shares his stories, and even jokes! Or read about Ptr. Rodel¢s jetsetting life as he blogs about his travels from one nation to another. In a few weeks time, we¢ll get to see how the Viscas will be doing in Bangkok as missionaries. (Oh I can¢t wait to see Nav with his new toys and playmates). Better yet, check out the hundreds of photo albums, posted almost daily by CROSSLinC members, of their many gimmicks. Web 2.0, together with other mobile phone technologies, such as text messaging, MMS, and video calls, have made this world a rather smaller place.
Church 2.0, on the other hand, is a church of the emerging generation that uses Web 2.0 apps—the emergent church. ICS¢ official website, www.ics.org.ph, is one tool that reaches far into the ends of the world. Preaching podcasts are uploaded regularly in hope that both old and new church members can listen to the Message should they be absent last Sunday. Why, a church minister in Kenya was even blessed one time upon reading our church¢s mission statement on our church website.
Imagine how difficult it was before to communicate with only a telegram to send a short message, or even snail mail, which could take months! But right now, we have no reason not to keep in touch and lose ties because of the Internet. Send an e-mail, upload your latest pictures, post your videos on YouTube, and even share your favorite music. Websites now are more user-friendly so one doesn’t have to learn HTML or programming just to update one’s very own website.
The Internet, with all its wonders, is indeed something we can use for different purposes. I see it as a gift from God so we can touch base with each other and most importantly, so we can further His kingdom. Shout Jesus¢ fame! Go forth and Multiply.com.
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Comments
Very true. While reading, I was reminded of a phrase that I heard in a song. “Do you realize that you’re alive in the greatest time of history?”. The disciples just wish they could have the internet during their time to preach the Word of God into all nations in a click of a button. Very good article.
P.S. What’s with the rant’s and raves?.hehe..
[…] In today’s hi-tech times, the Internet has both become a blessing and a bane. But for us Christians, we can turn this into a powerful tool not just to evangelize but to keep in touch with the rest of the family whenever, wherever.I, for one, am glued to the Net as my work revolves around it. I work at home and the only office equipment I have is my MacBook, with Internet connection of course. But what amazes me is not that I can work from home; what amazes me is the almost limitless possibilities with which I can communicate with family, friends, and church members using today’s available technologies. Read the rest of this entry » […]