Week 7 theoretical- Microblog on microblogging rituals

As discussed by Cheong in his article, faith tweets and online rituals are changing the way religion functions and forms connections. The internet has provided more ways to shape the blogosphere, and create new faith connections (Cheong 2010).


These online rituals and forms of sacred communication do not merely serve as an 'easy out', but provide congregation members ways to still connect in prayer or discussion during a physical absence from the church. This enables the believer to 'construct a connected presence and affirm their religious identities within an environment where wired communication is a significant part of everyday life' (Cheong 2010).

This new avenue of religiosity has created some friction also, as some church members may not approve of the tweeting during the sermon, or further see the social media platforms as devoutly secular and at odds with religiosity. However since the waning authority of the church, new modes and avenues to the transcendent will be deemed necessary.


Reference
Cheong PH, 2010. Faith tweets: Ambient Religious Communication and Microblogging Rituals. M/C Journal: A Journal of Media and Culture.


Photo
http://www.sxc.hu/browse.phtml?f=download&id=1383208