commDIGIunity
I have recently been reminded of the lack of a personal accountability and prayer partner, something that I once practiced regularly, yet in recent years (& circumstances) have neglected to pursue—no one to blame but myself. However, in preparations for an online CE course entitled “Would Paul Twitter?” my mind began to wander. This will be the first for me in doing a live on-line classroom experience (guess that I am behind the times a little). Anyway, in doing some scripture reading, personal reflection, and getting set up with camera/microphone I had a realization. I realized that with current technological and digital means, I could use my laptop to do a live session with an accountability partner. Granted, we would not be able to shake each other’s hand, but we could eat (break bread) together from the comfort of our own home, see each other via the webcam, converse, and spend some time in prayer.
My mind did not stop there, what if the church (I am sure that there are some already doing these) offered Bible study or small group experiences in somewhat the same manner? Folks could do it from the comfort of their homes. For those with children, they could put the kids to bed, and then log on at a specified time. That means no worry about paying for childcare in your home while you are away, or worries about having the kids out late in the nursery (which can provide for a stressful evening with the family at home after a great time of study and fellowship). For others that work late or have struggles with getting home and then to the designated place for a study, they could simply logon from their home. If churches offered some of these things, then we could do Bible studies or small groups at 9 or even 10pm (sorry Leno).
Obviously, there would be some things to consider; the “touch” aspect and physical presence of one another. In addition, would persons be more apt to be vulnerable or less if they were doing it up close and personal online – yet from the comfort and distance of their “own” space? I don’t know. I am sure that there are other things to consider here, but it would be well worth our time to consider and even possibly experiment with this “way” of doing community and fellowship.
What a great thought! I love the idea of being able to participate in a bible study in the evenings. My days are so full, but my evenings are not. What an amazing way to get some fellowship without having to deal with babysitters or taking time away from the children during the day. I can’t wait to find out how God will use the internet to strengthen our relationships with Him and each other.
Interesting. I think depending on the group members, the opening up could go either way. For some the internet allows them to let their guard down, for others it puts up their guard. I agree it is worth looking at and experimenting with. There are some people at our church, who are very experienced with on line courses and would be excellent resources. I can’t wait to see what happens with this idea!
I always say the more ways we can offer spiritual growth opportunities the better. You could add times of fellowship together for those in the immediate area. Dinners, walks, mission opportunities, etc. Great possibilities!