Thoughts on D.Min class - Day 2

Day 2 - our class continues the journey of reflecting upon how we think theology in light of our the world of digital media and its evolution...

I was reading today the assigned article by Helen Campbell, "Understanding the Relationship Between Religion Online and Offline in a Networked Society" (Journal of the American Academy of Religion, doi:10.1093/jaarel/lfr074).  (See abstract here.)  It has traditionally been speculated that what happens with online religion would affect the offline community.  However, the point that she makes is interesting: what is going on with religion online actually mirrors what is already going on with what is happening with religion offline.  

To me, this means that we no longer cannot see 'religion done online' as something that is 'preventable' (to those who are afraid of its influence) or as an 'unique religious experience for some'.  It means that what is happening in 'online religion' (both positive and negative) is already happening in the offline experience - and we need to pay close(r) attention to it.

So whether it's about how we do community, how we construct and perform our identities, perceive authority in new/different ways, see various religious practices being converged, or the different/multiple spaces in which religious is being practiced (the five traits that Campbell refers to) - it means that a major transition is happening in the religious landscape both on and offline.  In addition, I personally think that the online and offline experience is intertwined and cannot be separated.

So, in this time of major transition - which inevitably involves chaos and uncomfortable displacement - what are we, as religious leaders called to do?  I think it's first about paying full attention to what is going on, and seeking to be open to what we might see.  Then, I  think it's being attentive to the Spirit and open to what God is trying to bring forth.  And as we are called, to participate in what is becoming.  

As scary as it seems, it also feels pretty exciting to me!  What do you think....?