Amen. I too am giving up Facebook for Lent, and a few other forms of pseudo-community networking.

Much of what goes on at those sites isn't even networking. How does a SuperPoke develop a relationship?

It's an interesting concept, I wonder how much more personal community could be experienced if we would leave our virtual door and walk out our physical door. Along with a Lenten commitment to abstain from coffee (which by all means seems insurmountable), you've given fodder to the idea of abstaining from all social interaction sites...maybe even my blog. Thanks and God Bless!

well said, anne, and i was nodding as i watched shane's clip. these social media tools are great as, primarily, tools; they also are effective means for connection.

i love using them; i simply think we dilute the real meaning of community when we stretch its boundaries to include outlets such as FB and twitter.

First Carlos, now you? What am I going to read all day. j/k

I look forward to eventually reading about your lent experience and what you discover about how online community affects offline community from this experiment.

- Paul

That is so weird! I just last week decided to do the same thing! It isn't community!

I'm counting down to a Lenten media fast, too, in just a few seconds. In fact, I probably won't get to finish th...

Anne said, "I believe what happens online is connection—not community."

Doooooooh!

Thanks for speaking volumes Anne.

Anne and Shane: Let's do a thought experiment.

I gather together physically with my local community. And today there's one person in particular with whom I have a long chat and prayer with. I assume you would both define this as "real community."

An hour later, I'm at home and realized that I forgot to communicate something very important to that particular member of our F2F community. If I call them on the telephone to continue the conversation, are we not still engaged in the act of community? Does using the telephone somehow negate the act of community?

Anne, if I'm not mistaken, I believe you are the communication director of a multi-site church community in which people gather each Sunday to gaze at a virtual image on a giant TV screen. Are you saying that a large group of people passively watching a giant TV image together is "authentic community," but people who spend time actually interacting on-line isn't?

I'm not the DOC but that's beside the point :)

To answer your question...No, I don't think "a large group of people passively watching a giant TV image together is "authentic community.""

Not one bit.

I think Shane does a great job in his video outlining how your first scenario would be community, given context and history, etc.

Jonathan Brink,

Good thoughts. I can't speak for Anne, but I wouldn't call either of those (the service or the online stuff) community. I'm not sure she would, either. It's why we encourage smaller, face to face gatherings in small groups or their equivalents.

And I would say that your phone call is a tool of community, not the community itself. Just my thoughts. Thanks for sharing!

I remain personally convinced that there are many disconnected people out there who have no particularly community that would be enhanced by their going offline. For them, for right now, the connection is their community.

Today my own blog passed the one year mark. As I was about to write a self-congratulatory piece, a very heartfelt e-mail came in from a guy asking me to post something he had written. While I keep the world's largest collection of red flags, I could think of no reason to refuse. It reminded me why I've entered into this. So maybe I'm a little biased today.

Despite all our local churches have to offer; despite working in vocational ministry; despite the love of my wife and two great kids; I need to be active in the blogosphere right now; and I hope the world needs what I have to contribute. Twitter, however, I think we could all live without.

Community is awesome! I think you're right about people connecting online but not community... We'll for some "onliners" it is community! Also, the TV screen wathcing in churches... and Sunday morning meetings small groups during the week for 2 hours or so, well in the full sense and meaning of community non of these ideas are the core meaning of community. Anyone who has been part of a missions base or similar, will say: That is true community! I agree, the idea of community is in my opinion, when people hang out often, eat laugh, help each other when needed and do ministry together, support one another, grow spiritual together and so on... that is what we would like to see in our churches, some have it, most don't, because building community goes beyond the traditional ( settle for less ) idea of church, meetings,meetings. Anyway, I see Facebook and other social sites as part of building community, so it is not the idea of if is good or not, or real community or not, it is part of community! Now, as church leaders, pastors and so on, don't get offended, but I think you need to ocus more on building community for real fellowship...beyond meetings...and train people in their callings and ministries in in that create very fruitful communities... and why not let Facebook and any other social media be part of building community!

Rant end:)

Wow, Anne! Thanks for sharing. I gave up Facebook last November for some of those same reasons as well as others. I'd spend an hour plus a day updating, sending "gifts", reading other friends' updates...I knew it was bad when I sat and wondered, "What am I going to put on my status today?" One day God totally convicted me about how I was spending my time, and I dropped FB completely. I don't condemn anyone who chooses to participate, but for right now - in this season - this is what I need to do. Your article was very encouraging to me, because there are times when I wonder if I am overreacting about my decision. God Bless You!

Anne, thanks. Very best wishes with your new book.

Brad, you are right. A phone is not community. It is a tool which facilitates community. The Internet is not community. It is a tool which facilitates community.

But in Anne's view, a telephone does NOT facilitate community. In Shane's Out of Ur video (linked above), he infers that the Internet cannot facilitate community:

“...it’s virtual but it ain’t community ... It’s dangerous to use the word ‘community’ to describe [virtual community]... don’t call it community because it isn’t.”

Let's not cheapen any act of intentional, good-willed human-to-human outreach as something less than an expression of authentic community. I doubt Paul wrote his (virtual) letters with anything less than a profound sense of community in his mind and heart.

Communication builds community.

I am new to Facebook, and so far it has been WONDERFUL! I have reconnected with old friends -- we have updated each other on the things God has been doing in our lives since we last saw each other. I am sure that for some people there is the possibility of using a system such as Facebook to avoid "real" relationships, but for those few, perhaps Facebook is better than no community at all. For those who do NOT avoid "real" relationships,Facebook is an excellent way to keep connected from a distance (time and miles.)

Great food for thought. I wonder sometimes if I use the Face Book as the way to communicate with my far away friends and relatives OR am I missing out in a true conversation and blessing by picking up the telephone? This is great to think about for Lent tomorrow. Thank you.

Thanks for this post. I have suggested to myself that perhaps I need to fast from Facebook during Lent. I have been about half joking and half serious. I was surprised that others were also actually thinking about it. My concern is not how it impacts my offline relationships, but the power it has developed over me. Spending time on Facebook has become quite enjoyable, and addicting. And that is scary. I don't like the feeling of not being able to resist checking and updating my Facebook page every hour or so. And I don't like the way it can rob time that I could be devoting to other pursuits, like prayer and Scripture, and talking to people. I love Facebook. I have had some wonderful opportunities to minister to others through Facebook. I feel more connected because of Facebook. But I think I need a break. I trust my friends will understand.

Facebook? Myspace-MyFace? Twitter-books? wow lots of choices, BUT NO human, face-to-face tangibles, but in this day & age ppl can come out of there shells online, speak up or chat it up freely, they can't do that face-2-face. It is a world of vast choices, communication options galore. How do YOU react to No Facebook or anything else for Lent. It's called sacrifice right? The ppl will BE THERE after Lent...am I right? Anne makes an important point, Lent is what you do 'without' or sacrifice & we all have our "thing" too sacrifice - God gives us the strength to do it & trust in Him things will be the same after a short break:)

I understand your point but I personally am disabled and connect with loved ones by facebook or e-mail. My interaction at church is limited to weekly so the computer is a good tool.

Facebook should be an "instead of" for relationships. Our far-flung family has been brought together by the easily used interface and ability to participate in family conversation, share family photos and stay engaged in each other's lives. Picking up the phone, "real" letters, emails, face-face visits when possible, and every other form of communication between family and friends should also happen. Facebook can be a very positive enhancement to relationship. I have no intention of withdrawing even temporarily.

Why do people put so much stuff on Facebook IE: like having a dinner. Why not just call on phone or write a note or send email? All the info on facebook can and may get you in a heap of trouble. That is one reason I have not joined as yet I am still looking at all the problems with this network.
No hard feeelings to anyone who wishes to bare their soul on it, but not me right now.

I am a little confused about how you see my perspective that the tools do not facilitate community. In fact, just the opposite. I say tools can either add or detract from community -- depending on context. But they are what they are, just tools. Not in and of themselves community. Sorry if I miscommunicated in my post, although I am curious as to where you find that perspective.

I go agree that being part of a network like FACEBOOK is not a coomunity. God, our Good Shepherd have rescued us from our solo wandering and brought us into His fold to be with other use to be lost sheeps. Community is the gathering where we share our life, this can probably happen online but not to the fullest. We have to be integrated into the community of faith - the church, the eternal community.

Online community has it own strengthen. This enables us to minister to people from a distance, it includes me. I have been posting my daily devotion at FACEBOOK and people are blessed.

It is all about how we use technology. Are we going to use it for God's glory?

Hi Anne. I can so relate to your article! I have been having frequent arguments as of late with my husband on how I spend too much time on Facebook! He says I love FB so much more than him because I even log onto FB when I am at work and home. To which I argued back saying that it was more of a networking site for me and that I do not accept people I don't know - only friends from old, or mates working in other organizations. I guess for me its more about limiting my time on FB and there is the issue of drawing the line, like you don't chat up to someone you don't know or dont make an effort to meet when you know it is going to upset your spouse. But your 40 days fast has got me really thinking now. Thank you!

I guess my question is: Why does facebook have to be community? Why can't it be just what it is, Connection & a form of communication. I am a 55 year old mother of two adult daughters,a grandmother of four granddaughters who has just been introduced to facebook fairly recently. I have found people that I graduated from High School with 37 years ago. I am delighted to have found them and to know that they love Jesus as I do. We know longer live in the same states so facebook has given us the opportunity to reconnect, catch up on each other's lives, email each other, pick up a friendship we had sooo long ago. I am delighted and blessed for this opportunity. I have even reconnected with a best friend of mine from years ago and we just had lunch two weeks ago. We plan to stay connected as friends from now on. My daughter's discovered her sons on facebook or I would still be wondering what happened to her. I'm thankful for facebook whatever it is, community or connection. Does everything you involve yourself in have to be community? Why can't good come out of connection. I personally am keeping my spirit open on facebook for opportunities to share Jesus as I reconnect with people I once new. Thank you for the opportunity to share my views.
I will be giving something up for lint that has much more of a hold on me: Sugar

I've been online since the late 1980s & have participated in some very important communities. Yes, they're communities. Last Sept I was in hospital with heart failure. My local church community visited & phoned, but I got even more calls, cards & even gifts from my online friends, & they were more faithful in following up in ensuing difficult months. I've given up computer games for Lent in the past & it's a real sacrifice, more than giving up meat on Weds & Fris. But giving up people and real relationships is another matter. Perhaps if my husband were still alive I'd consider it to give him more time, but now I'm alone and this is my community along with friends at church. Facebook is one of the shallowest groups I belong to. Yahoogroups, Gather & a very old MOO site have much more in-depth relationships because people say much more in those places & converse about real topics in depth.

Thank you Anne for sharing. I agree that it is not community, but connection which is good. We choose to be on line or offline. We just need to set our priorities right, putting all that first need our attention! First things first! It is possible to manage things in its right prospective. As we pass along this life, we can touch the lives of some through on line friendship for the glory of God also. God bless.

hmmmm....would that Ms. Jackson had included some insight into why Christians "give up" stuff during Lent. the whole purpose should not be to connect facetoface with people but to connect more often and deepen your relationship with GOD! No wonder we get nowhere trying to explain the "why" of Lent to non-believers, when major Christian ezines like this don't promote the truth about our faith!

Interesting discussion. A year ago with little forethought I suddenly decided to fast from online medical chats for Lent. I had been living in another country with somewhat limited medical care when I was diagnosed with several serious and rare medical conditions 3-5 years ago. I found that asking questions on relevant websites was very important for me as I really had no one there to discuss my problems with. Shortly after I came home to the US two years ago, I was diagnosed with an extremely rare kind of cancer, so again I sought out a site where I could learn and share. By a year ago I was spending a lot of time each day on these sites, mostly just chatting. I often prayed for others there, but I realized that I was just spending too much time, so I quit for Lent a year ago. I had three reasons - to increase my time with the Lord, to lower my focus on myself and my medical issues, and to rid myself of what was rapidly becoming an idol. The result has been that since then I found my interest in these sites has been much lower and my attention is still in the process of returning to the Lord. So at least for me this fast was very profitable. I will be interested in seeing what others find this year.

BTW, I have thoroughly enjoyed this discussion...but since I am headed to bed, and tomorrow begins Lent, I must bow out and end this bit of Fat Tuesday commenting. I'll catch up after Easter. Thank you for all of your thoughts & keep them coming if you wish! :)

My mother reminded me when I was a young girl she overheard a conversation I had with my Catholic girlfriend. My friend said she was giving up candy for lent and that I should consider doing the same. I told her, "Oh, Jesus, doesn't want our candy, He wants our heart!"

While 40 days of fasting practically anything could only be a good thing for Americans, let's not lose sight of the meaning of the Lenten season. Remember, He wants our hearts. Even on Monday after Easter.

Congratulations to anyone giving anything up for Lent. Your article, Anne, and all the comments have given me much food for thought. I think instead of giving anything up, I'm going to add something: more Bible study!

Thanks! I've found facebook (and even email to a degree) to be far less rewarding than phone or (better yet) face to face communication. When electronic communication is not an expression of real friendships, it can be empty.

I think that Facebook has its pros and cons.
I have found some long lost persons on facebook. But then at times I feel obligated to use the facebook when I dont really want to. I think one has to be careful not to waste a lot of time there.
One thing that I appreciated about facebook is that my one grandaughter who is 11 and lives about 6 hours from me has been communicating with me on facebook and we have not been that close before. Now she sends me small notes on there saying how much she loves me and things like-- No, I love you MORE, Grandma!
I also have had more connection with my 22 year old grandson on facebook.
So it has been a great tool for me in some areas. But I dont do most of the things that they ask you to respond to.
I think it is like everything else that we are faced with in that we need to watch just how we use our time.

I'd agree largely with what you've said. I happen to blog (about random things in my life) and am also on Facebook. What I find is that the connections I've had before the Facebook era have been strengthened to a large extent by Facebook. Like you've clarified, these are tools with which we can build community, not definitions of community in and of themselves.

The key issues to me seem to be when the online connections replace the real life relationships that we have, or when we begin to live for the comments on our status, or the people who write on our walls, almost like a status symbol. It very quickly can degenerate into an attempt to improve our coolness rating, seek validation or other motive, rather than being a tool for building community.

Now that Media/Social Networking fast is looking like a brilliant idea... Might actually consider it meself!

The lord has been good to His children, in this period of lent, let us try to focus on His grace over the years and trust Him for our future. With the financial crunch, you mat ask why you are feeling the bite, well i believe God is trying to say something to us, we need to open our eyes and ears to see and to hear Him. God has not forgotten His children, i believe when we earnestly seek Him we will Find and when we ask He will listen and answer. God bless you all.
Nenfort Gonchen, Jos, Nigeria

My experience is that blogs help to communicate to people but some of the people you meet online have hidden identities and personalities.

It is cheaper to witness face to face than online. Face book is powerful network tool but Christians need to be cautious of it as it may turn into another hindrance to reach God. God bless.

This article is a new one for me.As a malagasy woman, I used to give up some expensive food and then donate the money you save at the end of Lenten season to people in need.Giving up negative habits is also common for Christians in Madagascar,and then you adopt positive ones: I hope this "new Fast" (for me) will help me to stand much more firm in my mission.

I'm giving up SHOPPING for Lent... and this is the first year I have ever given up anything for Lent (Baptists don't generally do Lent). As a matter of fact, I started a week ago, so it will be over 40 days. Not so sure it's going to be good for the country, but it will be good for me to get out of the useless shopping spree (albeit cheap stuff). I'm not including necessary food items, of course. Best wishes to all in 2009.

Don't have many firneds on Facebook, I don't add people willy-nilly so when I talk to them it is community. However, I spend far too much time on the applications, word games mainly so have decided to give these up and do more people centred activity, on and off the net!

Great. Another social media we tend to forget in the search for technological peace and quite is text messaging. Sure, texting isn't online, but remove it from your life for a while, and we might realize how necessary (or useless) it really is.

I'm a 71 year grand-father with 16 grandchildren and 2.5 g.g.c.

In a society where many are afraid of silence, live in loneliness, facebook and/or cell phones have been a rescue to meet these conditions head on.

Many are blessed by these means of communication on account of special needs and difficult circumstances.

However, it has been my observation that these means of communications is preventing many of the participants to develop intimacy with Jesus, endangering themselves, eventually, to hear these crushing words: "Depart from Me, I do not know you".

Recent publications, like "Heaven is so real" and "A message from God", make it abundantly clear that Jesus thinks quite differently who will be His Bride, than what many churches have adopted as their comfortable theology, which has become a form of deception, by which many will either walk eternally outside of the new Jerusalem, or end up in hell. Read these books in which Jesus is urging the believers to be obedient to His call of holiness.

These are not my opinions, but rather Jesus is greatly concerned about the status of His church, and about the many souls that are in danger of loosing their eternal life with Him in the city of God. This is what the Bible declares and what Jesus has been revealing in these books.

S/he who has an ear to hear, let her/him hear what the Spirit is saying!!".

My dear co-believers, what you believe to be the truth, is NOT the same as having the faith of God, nor the same as having the faith of our Lord Jesus, without which it is impossible to please God. Practising the faith of our Lord Jesus is the only faith that counts;everything else is rubbish and of the flesh, which God hates with a passion. He speaks to us 24/7, 365 days per year, and only a few listen and hear Him.

If I, as a parent speak to my children continually, and they ignore me, I would be very, very sad. So ... I wonder how the Lord feels when we, as His children do that day in and day out, because we are so busy with our E-Mails, Face book,cell phones, etc..

Any Comments?

Wilt.

My experience is nearly the opposite of Dorine's. I love Facebook and have had some good connections (not sure I'd say community, though it's close to community in a few instances) with people there. I never felt like I really knew anyone at Gather or Yahoogroups.

I have, however, decided (before reading this post) to give up computer games for Lent. I come from a church background that does not observe Lent, so giving up something time-consuming like that is a new experience for me. I chose NOT to give up Facebook because, even if it isn't community, it's the closest thing to community I have, and I see it as an opportunity to pray for and encourage friends and acquaintances.

I believe I agree with you. I think that the internet (online) is a tool in which to connect but it doesn't equal a true community. This is one of the reasons why I believe that cyber school is not always the best means of education. While they do get the educational aspects...there is no socialization skills being acquired. This is a problem with the upcoming generation...they do not have communication skills on a face to face relationship. They would even rather text than just call and talk to the person. I guess I am just a bit old fashioned in the community definition. Facebook, blogs, etc. are only TOOLS...not the actual community of people. Thanks for the enlightening article. Rose from PA

A person should determine,based on his/her lifestyle, what they should give up for fast. If Facebook is not what interferes with and takes the place of your intimate time with God, then it is not the thing you need to give up. If you spend more time on it than you do with God, then you may want to look at giving it up. Ultimately our fast should bringer in closer communion with God, so we can minister to others. You decide!

Anne,

Like Shane's, a good and thoughtful post.

Perhaps I should raise a voice once again for trying to get us to think about either/or thinking. If I had to choose whether a blog (which is much different from FB or Twitter or MySpace) is community or not community, I would choose the latter. But the choices are much greater than "yes" or "no."

That folks speak here of "connection" vs. "community" brings to the surface once again what it is that happens online. And what happens online, in genuine word-to-word communication participates in human interaction and that is good and it is part of what is community: think about letter writing in the past, think about reading books, etc.. They were at least "fellowship" at some level.

No, online sites are not complete communities. But, why enter into this conversation with a "yes" or "no" false dichotomy?

Let me ask you what I asked Shane: How do you define community? Does it include the "communion of the saints"?

Anne,
I too came to that realization that this is not community. I joined FACEBOOK in November. It was fun at first but as I realized how much time I was spending looking at others profiles, joining causes that didn't mean anything (or that I really don't participate in except by clicking on a certain cause) it was a real time waster. I also realized that as I am reading others profiles, I am starting to judge and that's when I knew it was time to get off. So I'm thrilled that you and others have the view that if we want community, we need to pick up the phone or invite someone over to get to know them, minister and love them.

Let me now be picky in a pushback: if online sites are not community, neither is refraining from FB a "fast." A "fast" is a choice not to eat (any food) for a temporary period, and perhaps not to drink, but "fast" is not the same as "abstinence."

I will say for someone who has lived, attended school and worked in 5 different states, that the virtual world has changed my entire life. I have been able to reconnect with people from my past who were very important to my personal and spiritual development who I had lost touch with over the years, due to life circumstances, family obligations, changes of address etc...I feel so much more connected, encouraged and strengthened now that my network has been able to expand to pull together all the meaningful people in my life, past and present. Certainly "everything in moderation" is a new attitude I am trying to adopt but I will continue to be encouraged and inspired by partaking in the lives of those I love, near and far through social media. There are far too many other habits in my life (i.e. chocolate) that could benefit from abstinence for a season.

I think that we need balance in all things. Is a computer screen any more intrusive than a cell phone ringing while having lunch with a friend or someone putting you on hold because of a call waiting beep during a conversation your already having?

I like the distiction you are trying to make between connection and community- but I think it is totally subjective to who you choose to be your kindreds; so the very same database of contacts can fall into either category.

What we need to do is examine our hearts, time and motives in all that we do, online or off and see how we are fulfilling God's plan for our lives. Anything can be a distraction to His purpose.

Thanks for sharing! Good things to think about!

Anne writes, "I am a little confused about how you see my perspective that the tools do not facilitate community...I am curious as to where you find that perspective."

Hi Anne. You said, "what happens online is not community." And later you say, "I believe what happens online is connection —not community."

My experience differs here. I have seen countless examples of ecclesial community "happening" online. Virtual community is not a substitute for physical community. It is an enhancement and enrichment of community.

I'm surprised at the number of people framing this conversation in stark binary thinking. Physical = community. Virtual = something else. In reality, any definition of "community" must embody nuance and color and deeply shared imagination.

This morning, I thought of John McCain sending coded (virtual) messages to his cell mates in a Vietnam hell hole. They had little physical contact with each other, but sustained one of the most profound community bonds we can imagine.

I just blogged a review of Shane's new book, if you're interested.

I guess this all depends on your views of media and technology.many of us believe that media and its technologies are neutral. I don't. Although media and technology can be entertaining, this should not drive our concept of community. Yet this seems to be the case for many. The most tribal form of segmentation happens through media. Although we can have thousands of facebook friends with various povs, we probably still use it as a platform to interact with people only like us. That's okay but it is predictable. Community should have some unpredictability beyond a super poke or worrying about our status.

I use facebook as another form of communication to enhance real relationships. So I hardly change my picture, I change my status every 3 days or so if I have something to say and I don't use a lot of the applications.

I really honestly don't understand how working people married with children have time to trade some of the trivial info I see on facebook.

Apostle paul wrote letters but he eventually visited his churches.

Facebook should be a communication tool and nothing else. If not, what does this say about american christianity and the church? (I am thankful for the connectivity it provides for those who are less mobile)

I totally disagree! The Lord directed us to have both F2F & an online "community" of women with the online portion to come FIRST! We do connect & those who have connected well do have a sense of community with each other. Community is not just dependent upon the venue, but upon the folks who make community happen because of "commonality" around something! Community begins with connections & connections are hopefully designed to turn into relationships. Community results from connections FIRST & that can happen via any venue. All you talk about in your post is Facebook. There are multitudes of other social networking sites that truly are building community.

Much for than many churches I know who do nothing to build community among there many members. The church I think has done the best job of that is Jack Hayford's 4-Square church (Church on the Way, Van Nuys, CA). And they don't show the message on a large video screen that I'm aware of.

Lent is not truly Biblical and most in the Protestant world don't celebrate it. It is too often an outward show only & not something that relates to an inner change of heart. Trust me, give up the internet if you must. . . but don't make generalizations that may not be true for all believers.

Linda S. Fitzgerald, M.S.Ed
THE CONNECTION STATIONtm

online community Vs. offline community...

doesn’t the fact that you are reading these comments right now tell you something? You have entered an online community. Do we all live in the same area? Of course not! Are we connected? To a certain extent, yes! Can we be a part of a community and still be disconnected? hmmm....

where is yuor community?
ARE WE LIVING IN COMMUNITY?

You choose.

maintaining a balance might be the answer... are you willing to keep it balanced? examining all and holding on to the good...

Hi Anne-

About a month ago, my pastor encouraged our congregation to give up something as part of a fast for a week...not necessarily food, but something that may 'rule' your life- whether you recognize it or not. I decided to give up Facebook that week, and I was very surprised at how difficult it actually was! I encourage others to try this, too.

-Angie

IT doesn't matter what you call it. Community or virtual connection. The point is that you could use it in a positive and/or a negative way. You need to use your judgement so you don't hurt anyone. For me, I get to share with friends and family that are far away. See pictures, share emotions...Yes, getting together is better, or even calling them, rather than doing it online, but at least, you are connecting to people that otherwise, you would not! I started recently and I love it. Yes you could get addicted. I find it to be fun. Again, use your judegemnet. "Everything is permissible for me"—but not everything is beneficial. "Everything is permissible for me"—but I will not be mastered by anything.
1 Corinthians 6:12

You've certainly given me some food for thought and challenged me on some things, Anne. Thanks for the post.

Is FB an idol in my life? Some days it is. And I sometimes allow it to interfere with my studying and preparing my next message. Yikes!

Last night I spent a good deal of time on FB dialoging with a number of folks who hadn't attended church events in some time. Some of these folks would not have responded to my phone calls or even an email.

Am I justifying my poorly spent time? Maybe... Perhaps it depends on the day...Regardless, I hope that the gentle nudges that I've given to the folks connected with is seen as a bit of encouragement to get plugged back into the community.

Facebook is just another of the world's distractions. Managed properly, by using it and not having it use you - it's not on my radar at all. Like TV, the movies? I just tune out - and not because it Lent. For me the journey of Lent is more about gaining a more intimate understanding of Christ's walk through these forty days. What sins continue to keep me at arms length and out of His embrace? How can I best pray to have this Sacred season, be transforming? Help me Lord to day by day grown closer and closer, so that I feel the Easter victory to it's full. Let thoughts of you, Jesus be upper most in my mind each day, and if I Facebook - let me testify to the truth of Christ.

As the Bible states, do everything in moderation and that would include
blogging. /ss

Greetings, I am not quite sure how I came accross this but felt like contributing. I am a pastor's wife in Norman OK and for the most part we have a college ministry. Young people have always been my heart and facebook is a way of life for many of them. That being said, there is a serious need for face to face interecation as one can use this as a tool to hide from real life. In order to grow and see oneself correctly, there must be interaction withother believers, more so for accountability than anything else. There is a danger in being isolated and straying from healthy guidelines for social interactions. In fact it can become somewhat of a crutch. I would definitely say at least once during the week have a face to face with Cgristian leadership and stay plugged in to a local fellowship-no pun intended LoL :)

FaceBook has proven to be a great way of connecting for one Sunday school class in particular that I know of. They keep each other updated on church events, stay in touch with each other's needs, plan socials, etc.

Never before in the history of mankind have we had some many "methods" by which we can communicate/connect/relate.

Never before in the history of mankind have we been so DISCONNECTED, UNRELATED, and NONCOMMUNICATING.

Facebook Myspace, and the various "live chat rooms" are nothing more than a bastardization of "real community." This troubles me greatly. We are living in a "point, click, send" or "point, click, delete" world...and we are the worse for it.

Life is more than a "download" or an "upload" or a jpeg...

THANK YOU THANK YOU ANNE!!!

It's been driving me crazy that people are trying to equate blogs/twitter/facebook etc/ to churches or living communities.

I believe there is some merit in these onlines conversations and pseudo communities...but there are just as many negatives. Not the least of which is that we all sit in the comfort of our own homes instead of having an impact on neighbor next door.

I think we lose 1/2 the Gospel when our only connection/community is through a computer screen.

THANK YOU.

A Facebook Fast sounds like one of those superfulous spiritualizations sooooo common today--overstatements. How about simply, "I want to have more self control over the amount of time I am spending on ___ (fill in whatever is controlling your time). It sure smacks of self righteous expression--do we ever hear, "I am giving up changing my sheets once a week"-- or how about, "I am giving up video gaming?". Why make people feel like they are less spiritual when perhaps, social networking fills a gap that mindless television viewing cannot.

Great concept. We seem to have gotten lost as a society. But I am really old fashioned. I hate email and texting since I want to hear your voice. And even moe, to see your expression and hear yor tone!

As far as "church" is concerned, most people walk out without ever having experienced community, or for that matter, without ever having wanted to experience i!

I can only spend so long on any computer program because I'm so easily bored - chalk it up to being a bit ADD, but seriously, aside from checking in once or twice a day for a few minutes...it doesn't capture my interest all that much. I'd much rather listen to NPR radio...now there's an addiction worth having!

Phil Hoover says, "Never before in the history of mankind have we been so DISCONNECTED, UNRELATED, and NONCOMMUNICATING."

Phil, some see the glass half empty, some see it half full.

Never in history has religion been presented with an opportunity to truly connect on a global level, to rise above inherited tribal biases, to discuss and understand our differences in a truly transparent global forum, for peer-to-peer relationship that can re-orient centuries of denominational dysfunctions, to create - from the commons - a 7/24/365 globally-connected church that functions within a healthy balance of local-physical and global-virtual connectedness.

I'm giving up Facebook for Lent, as well as texting. Because I am so addicted to these things, I think that giving them up will be beneficial to my family life and spiritual life.

I also gave up Facebook, Twitter, and Linkedin for Lent. I am encouraged by the connections I have made on Facebook. It is a convenient way to keep in touch with people. I also find that I see many people that I had lost touch with more often face to face because we can easily invite each other to parties and other events on Facebook. I have also met many other great people through the events for which I have received invites.

That being said, I am giving these "networks" up for Lent because they can easily suck up my time. It also gives me a chance to focus on the people that Facebook or Linkedin cannot connect me to...

I think the issue is not whether it is community. I personally thing it can be. Especially when we are isolated. However, I think a big issue is whether you succumb to the addictive nature of it. If you can check your Facebook or update once a week. You're probably fine. i have found myeslf needing to check all the time. At that point, I realize I have a problem. So I am going to give up some computer things for Lent (in addition to the usual sweets that I always do. For the person who states that Lent is not Biblical. There are lots of things that "agree' with scripture that are not necessarily mentioned in it. It has been a part of church history for a long time. It celebrates time to focus on the coming of Easter and giving something up to symbolize and make you feel a part of Christ's time of 40 days by giving up something that is important to you. Many in all faith traditions have substituted things like giving up yelling at my spouse or something instead of an actual fast for food and drink, and that may even be harder and more meaningful for some. Some traditions. such as Eastern Orthodox, have a much more complex tradition. The whole focus of it is for a time of contemplation on why we need a savior. For many who have never practiced Lent, it can be a time to stop focusing on life and start focusing on God and what he has done. Just because something is not mentioned in the Scripture does not mean that it is not Biblical per se. Having grown up as a Conservative Evangelical who also attended a Conservative Methodist Church which celebrated Lent, I see lots more things that many Christians do that are much more "unBiblical" and destructive to the Body of Christ than practicing Lent which can get our focus back where it needs to be.

Hi Anne,
I too am giving up Facebook for Lent. I joined it at least a year ago, and found it a great way to keep in contact with all my friends that I met in Seminary. (We have a group specifically for our alumni.) However, I have found that I have spent too much time looking at profile updates and notifications. Seriously, some people must live on Facebook and give moment by moment updates of bodily functions. Way too much information! I also have found myself wasting too much time playing word games. Being challenged by others at least five times a day is overwhelming. This time spent on this way of connecting with others takes me away from too many other important things that I should be focused on. Anyways, I giving up Facebook for at least 40 days, perhaps even more.

I totally get the non-community online communities, but I've seen blogs, social media, and email literally change people's lives. Like many things, it's just a tool.

Look at what Facebook has sent out. Its ironic that I received this message after I stated on FB that I would be off FB for 40 days...:-)

Lately there have been many members complaining that Facebook is becoming very slow.Record shows that the reason is that there are too many non-active Facebook members. And on the other side too many new Facebook members. We will be sending this messages around to see if the Members are active or not. If you're active please send to 15 other users using Copy+Paste to show that you are active. Those who do not send this message within 2 weeks will be deleted without hesitation to create more space. If Facebook is still overpopulated we kindly ask for donations but until then send this message to your friends and make sure you send this message to show me that your active and not deleted.s

Founder of Facebook
Mark Zucke

Hi I am Reama from Fiji and this is what I had posted. I think you got your comments confused. God bless.

Posted by: D.T. Mongoso at February 24, 2009

Hi Anne. I can so relate to your article! I have been having frequent arguments as of late with my husband on how I spend too much time on Facebook! He says I love FB so much more than him because I even log onto FB when I am at work and home. To which I argued back saying that it was more of a networking site for me and that I do not accept people I don't know - only friends from old, or mates working in other organizations. I guess for me its more about limiting my time on FB and there is the issue of drawing the line, like you don't chat up to someone you don't know or dont make an effort to meet when you know it is going to upset your spouse. But your 40 days fast has got me really thinking now. Thank you!

I'm just starting FB, and I am already finding myself leaning into God more on this one! As always, media is not the enemy, but a powerful tool... Is it molding me? Am I bringing my needs to it, or can I offer some of 'the hope that lies within?' Never been a greater need for boundaries!!!

FB has been a great tool which God has used to witness to many of my friends and family across the world. As you say, it is perhaps less threatening to people than face-to-face encounters. I too am fasting from it for Lent this year as I had noticed that I was more likely to open up my computer than my Bible in the evening. As in all things we need to keep a balanced view of what we want and what God wants for us. If the idea of Lent is to enter into the sufferings of Christ and to examine our hearts and perhaps re-align ourselves with Him, then my time has to be spent in prayer and His Word rather than on FB.

Each new technology brings up these issues again. The Amish drew the line at the telephone. The Apostle John wrote "Though I have much to write to you, I would rather not use paper and ink. Instead I hope to come to you and talk face to face, so that our joy may be complete." (2 John 12) Yet he continued to write to his friends (3 John & Revelation).

Online textual communication of any sort loses the tone of voice and body/facial communication that experts tell us make up 93% of F2F communication. But it also allows unprecedented access to others in a multitude of covenient ways.

Any form of communication can be used or abused to either enhance or hinder that hard-to-define yet known-when-experienced thing we call "community" or "fellowship". Community is itself only one of the God-given purposes for humanity (as Rick Warren has highlighted for us) to look at the even bigger picture (i.e. even if Facebook, etc. do help create true community, they should not be allowed to squeeze out worship, service, etc. from our lives).

Like many tools, Facebook makes a good servant but a lousy master. As Cely reminded us, Scripture is clear: "Everything is permissible for me"—but not everything is beneficial. "Everything is permissible for me"—but I will not be mastered by anything. 1 Corinthians 6:12

I've only been on Facebook a short time, and already believe in my heart of hearts, that this is not community - but connection only. It is odd that some of the people I've been able to "connect" with through Facebook I have not been able to have a cup of coffee with. Nor, have I not been able to hear from them unless it had something to do with "ministry"... Odd, isn't it? I've thought about the possiblity of "bowing out" of the site - haven't really figured that out yet. Why? you might ask. My reason, I feel that it is in some way voyerism - where's the little private conversations one has face to face. Looking into a person's eye to find sincerity? Anyway,that's my take on the subject. Carmella, Brooklyn NY

Virtual community can and do create offline relationships and communities – “Meet Up” is a good example. People have a deeper appreciation for offline community and will use online community to achieve that as opportunities arise. The rare occasion of meeting someone offline is not only a “real” treat but one can experience and “read” as it were the person – not the author. We can read the Word but have an ongoing relationship with Jesus if we choose, which brings up an interesting observation about the virtual nature of spirit.
I like this comment on a previous post: If real discussion rarely happens in most evangelical (fundamentalist) churches or communities, why challenge that kind of give and take online? Better to have two or three gathered together speaking honestly and freely online rather than a thousand trying to make their round lives fit into a square hole.
I don’t think the discussion of: is it, or isn’t it community is valid. The focus should be stewardship, time, wisdom and balance. Fasting helps realign priorities. Main concerns include lack of accountability. In terms of action, Facebook offers a kind of armchair participation. We do not typically use community as vehicles to create, collaborate, and help others. Is the conversation being used creatively to engage culture and further the gospel?? The window to use these technologies may be brief – are we squandering our opportunities?
Anne absolutely nailed it for me: “Online connections are good. They can be deep and good for our souls. But when we turn them into an online community, they can, and do, impact our face-to-face interactions. When we spend more time staring at a glowing monitor than we do into the eyes of those we love, or need to love, it might be time to shut off the computer. “
David Swanson ‘s comment on a previous post is great: Madeliene L'Engle says the key to successful living is learning to ask the right questions. Marshal McLuhan, a guide to Shane's book "The Hidden Power of Electronic Media", uses the story of Narcissus. Only McLuhan's take on the story is different than that of Freud who came up with the term narcissism to describe extreme levels of self-interest. McLuhan argues that Narcissus failed to recognize his own reflection in the fountain. He became absorbed with the medium. Narcissus was numbed by the medium - consumed by the technology.
Virtual determines lifestyle. If we do not notice family members because of a 24/7 computer face plant– something is dysfunctional. Have we bothered to ask how our constant online time impacts others? If one adds up the time spent surfing or connecting and adds up the time spent with a family member and the ratio is radically skewed, addiction might be a factor. In denial, Narcissus is only aware of himself, not others nearby and so is already disconnected causing others to disconnect, perhaps into similar behaviors. This is convenient for some, as real relationships can be secondary, unpredictable and messy, like gardens they need time and tending. One spends time with whom they value most.

I think most of what has been said is valid and for me I just need to make sure time spent on the internet does not become an idol and an excuse not to interact with other humans face to face. For those who are disabled it is a tremendous tool and in all of this we should not throw out the baby with the bath water...we must find out what God wants us to do and then move on from there...seek God's kingdom first...all the rest will be added...as we move towards resurrection sunday may we keep our focus on what God wants to see happening in our lives...His priorities, not ours!!
Gaynor, Brazil - mother of 9 children, 5 still living at home..

Not to throw rocks or anything but I have a question.

Is it really appropriate to give up things for Lent that ultimately are not necessities? I mean, when I think of fasting, I think of giving something up that my body cannot live without. Facebook isnt one of them.

When I take time away from TV, I guess I call it reflection time, not fasting.

Maybe thats a discussion for another thread.

Yes, that is very true that face book is a means of connection and that we keep our focus on the community we are called to live in and serve. It is so tempting to loose focus. I guess the devil will have us want to loose our focus. May Our Lord help us.

I've just spent 25 minutes reading through all these posts and looking at various links related to the discussion, and I don't know any of you folks! Now I need to get back to my message on 'fasting' (of all things!) and I may need to include a section on "fasting from virtual community"! Thanks, everyone, for the thought provoking perspectives!

Perhaps it would be helpful to ask ourselves a few questions like:
1. Am I experiencing community, and if so, in what contexts am I experiencing it?
2.Am I using online tools to fill my need for community? In other words, are on-line tools my "sole" experience of community?
3.Is my use of on-line tools helping others experience community?
4.Is my use of on-line tools helping me to "avoid" community?

The most important question might be:
5. "What exactly IS community, again?
The answer to this question is essential finding the answer for the first four, and there is likely more questions that need to be asked in brainstorming this topic. There may be more questions, and I am just beginning to ask these questions to myself...

I agree that "connecting" might be a better term for what happens on-line, at least in my own experience of on-line usage. As for the term "community", my best experiences of it have been in the context of engaging in missions. I'm currently committing myself to dig deeper and to take on a mission of finding a framework for organic community within my local church. I think this commitment requires me to do at least a little less on-line connecting in order to refocus my attention where my mission is... locally.

I've enjoyed reading this blog and the many comments posted, as I think it's an important topic to reflect upon and discuss. A big "Thanks" to all of you who are a part of this discussion.

The people who puzzle me the most are the ones who abandon real community for their on-line "community", most of whom they have never met face to face. A friend tells me her husband thinks the "coolest" people are on-line, although he has never met any of them in-person. This reminds me of the "personals" in the newspaper and other places. Almost everyone describes themselves there as "attractive".

Several good friends have fallen victim to on-line "community" and we rarely see them now. One says he spends most of his spare time on Facebook. Personally, we think it is an excuse to avoid real community - His online community is essentially a fantasy community.

A friend who works with pastors and other religious leaders tells me that many of them have a huge issue with on-line pornography, and that many of them belong to on-line groups dedicated to this interest. Apparently, Yahoo Groups and similar sites have groups for whatever your interest may be.

Personally, I find that on-line groups are opportunities to have discussions with people with similar interests, which I may not be able to find where I live. My special interests, Biblical ecclesiology, Biblical textual criticism and topics related to the emerging church are not something that most people I know can discuss.

I'll be interested to hear your thoughts when your fast is over.

Good idea about giving up Facebook, Twitter, etc. for Lent. Recently, I've been coming home on occasion and not even firing up my laptop. There are things going on in my life which really necessitate that I have quiet and even the intrusion of technology "sounds" like noise. I've found on those evenings that I didn't plug in, I didn't miss anything. The world was still revolving on its axis the next morning.//
In your point about what you'd miss by not being able to get someone's message about a girl's night out, I think true community would cause someone to pick up a phone and call and check on their friend. I think where all of this gets scary is when we begin to think that a phone call or a personal visit is seen as unheard of. I love technology, but to totally replace it with technology is, I think, a big mistake.

You perfectly described my problems/concerns with Facebook, Twitter, etc. It is too much for me; I'd much rather talk to someone on the phone or meet for coffee, than see their update on FB that they've been to the grocery store.

Thanks for sharing your thoughts.

As I am looking to start a blog I have come across these interesting comments and conversations about community. I am curious why the question is "what is community?". I am more interested in asking what is beneficial or profitable. As I evaluate facebook, twitter, blogs I desire to know if this will benefit myself and or others. As enjoyable as it is to debate semantics I am not sure how answering that question helps me?

I enjoyed your post. I hopped over here from Shannon's site. I, also, shut down my blog for Lent. I am posting once a week. I did it for very similar reasons and I found your perspective interesting. I felt a prompting in my heart to be more authentic in my relationships. I want to be a better friend to my friends- in real ways. I find that cultivating friendships online (even to those I see in the "real world") is not deep enough. I want reach out to others, meet their needs (even sense their needs- and that is really hard to do on the computer), and be present in their lives. I want to be authentic in my relationships. This also goes beyond my screen relationships. For Lent I am spending more time reading scriptures and I find that God can prompt my heart like no other - and he not only gives me a great chance to be authentic but he also opens my eyes to others in ways I can't dream up.

Thanks for letting me ramble. I really enjoyed this post.

I tried not having internet connection for almost 2 months and it gave me more time to develop a good habit of my daily quiet time and Bible readings.

Fasting from the social networks would be a lot easier. Dedicate your time for the Lord. The Holy Spirit will convict us. :)

God bless.

What happens online stays online. Just a reminder to Christians, Christ is all in all, there is no community (outreach and inreach) without Christ in the center. Unconditional love of the agape kind is empowered by Christ alone, is not possible without skin, and judging by all the FB action, many people are risk and skin-averse (afraid of real people). I guess they play around on FB to keep a safe distance, and the world is truly a dangerous place to play with matches. Even so, I leave the twittering to the birds (aka bird brains). Christians, and pre-Christians who desire to grow in Christ-like qualities, need to spend more time in the Best Book in the World, the Bible. Reading God's Word teaches us that Jesus came to die for the sins of the world. This is not a joke, folks. Then he rose again so that we might have life, and life more abundant. John 10:10 Actually, the whole verse is even better:
The thief comes only to steal, and kill, and destroy; I came that they might have life, and might have it abundantly. Verse 11: "I am the good shepherd; the good shepherd lays down His life for the sheep." The good life is lived out by following the Good Shepherd, which is done by reading His Word, and acting on it. There is no other way. I have been lost, but now I am found. Halleluiah! JESUS SAVES.

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I was watching a christion station and they were talking about a facebook fast. I decided to try it for 40 days. I am on day 5 and it is not that easy.

Facebook is a good site to reconnect with some people but you have to be careful with how much time you spend on it.

Great informative post thanks for sharing.....

I don't know what the fuss is, I can go without facebook for weeks. In fact forever. I hate the fact that everyone sees what you are doing instantly. Great to catch up with old friends but no when you don't have any.

I totally agree to your point - online is connection, not community. According to many sociological studies, community is a group of interacting people that live in a common location. That's exactly what online connection is missing

Face book is such a great plat form where you find the whole world. Its great to market your stuff and also great place for relation ship. Its one of my most favorite social site.

Thank you for sharing to us.there are many person searching about that now they will find enough resources by your post.I would like to join your blog anyway so please continue sharing with us

"People can be vulnerable and honest online. And at times these online connections can be more life-giving than many of our offline relationships, but they are not the same." -true, it is because we were created unique.

"People can be vulnerable and honest online. And at times these online connections can be more life-giving than many of our offline relationships, but they are not the same." this is real, because we were created unique by our mighty creator

I am not that active on facebook anymore but twitter i use sometimes and i prefer it.