By embracing the digital age, Christians can deepen their
faith and connect with like-minded communities. REMMY NWEKE writes in Telecoms Clinic@ITREALMS, that the
internet's vital role in modern Christian practice, offering inspirational
content, online forums, and personalized growth opportunities, revolutionizing
the way people engage with their faith.
Prologue:
Ogonna is a professional, whose job entails roving and
constantly on the road. He needed to leave town on a Sunday and had concern
over missing Sunday mass, even though he knew there could be evening mass at
the destination, but he was not too sure if the time of getting to the
destination will be convenient enough to search around for a parish around his
accommodation in Wuse II, Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja.
He shared his anxieties with the wife, who promptly reminded him of how they survived COVID-19 by attending online masses. With gratitude, he thanked her and so, agreed to leave early, get to the bus terminal in the city where he could be around after boarding his choice vehicle to Abuja, while joining an online mass, even from his parish in Port Harcourt.
Hence, immediately on getting to the city park, he ensured there is enough data and his Internet was switched on. Voila, a Google search on the Internet gave Ogonna a number of options including foreign parishes whose time zone was over six hours difference, while he had a choice of joining local parishes for online mass, which is on the rise.
Embracing digital age of faith:
This resonates with the recent thought-provoking injunction
by the Catholic Archbishop of Lagos, Most Rev. Dr. Alfred Adewale Martins, who encouraged
Christians to harness the power of technology to deepen their faith. He also urged
believers to use their android phones and other internet-enabled devices to
explore the vast array of spiritual resources available online.
The internet, Telecoms Clinic@ITREALMS gathered, has transformed into a sanctuary for those seeking spiritual guidance, community, and resources. Online platforms provide a wealth of information on various faiths, spiritual practices, and personal development. This digital revolution has transformed the way people engage with their faith, making it possible to stay connected with spiritual communities and access inspirational content 24/7.
Benefits of surfing the Internet of faith:
Surfing the internet of faith offers numerous benefits. It provides unparalleled access to spiritual resources, allowing individuals to explore their faith from the comfort of their own homes. Online communities offer a sense of belonging and connection with others who share similar beliefs and values.
The internet also exposes individuals to diverse perspectives, fostering greater understanding and empathy. Furthermore, online resources enable individuals to tailor their spiritual journey to their unique needs and interests.
Navigating the Internet of faith:
To navigate the internet of faith effectively, individuals should verify online sources to ensure that they are credible and trustworthy. They should approach online content with a critical and discerning mindset, evaluating the information and considering multiple perspectives.
Balancing
online exploration with offline spiritual practices and community engagement is
also essential. Prioritizing staying connected with others, both online and
offline, helps maintain a sense of community and support.
Future of Faith Online:
As technology continues to evolve, it's likely that the
internet will play an increasingly important role in shaping the way people
practice and understand their faith. By embracing the internet as a tool for
spiritual growth, individuals can deepen their understanding of their faith,
connect with others, and find solace in the digital age.
With discernment, critical thinking, and a commitment to staying connected with others, believers can harness the potential of the internet to enhance their spiritual journeys.
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