Hiatus to End

Yes, I realize that I haven’t paid attention to my blog since April and I’m not sure why. But, trying to find excuses has inspired me to try again. It would seem quite appropriate that I reflect on why I use social media.

Last summer a confluence of three events – Facebook, Twitter and iPhone - refocused my life in many ways. It all started when I decided I needed to check out FB and Twitter for its possible use as First Church communication tools. Almost immediately, I was captivated by the wide variety of voices, which were expressing their thoughts and sharing information. It was apparent that we should add this to our methods of communication and thanks to James Sturgeon, the church soon had a FB page and a Twitter account.

Personally, I am not only enjoying social media as a way of connecting with church members, but also with friends and family. Knowing what is happening in their everyday lives gives me a stronger sense of relationship with them. Immediate concerns can be addressed through a visit, a phone call, an e-mail message and/or a prayer. I enjoy being in community with new and old friends, young and old. As we share personal moments, I feel that we allow a more genuine caring relationship to happen in this often disconnected society. Also, for an effective ministry, I have to be in tune with our changing culture that seems often to be revealed through social media. My Twitter world shares breaking news and interesting links to the latest thoughts about technology, politics, religion and ministry. Through well-known to lesser-known voices, I am able to capture a glimpse of important cultural trends and perspectives. However, all of this does consume time and I have to be careful to avoid over-consumption, esp. since my dear husband introduced me to my iPhone. Almost anytime or anywhere I can be connected. Yet, I have neglected my blogging.

For the past five years I have used my blog, A Pilgrim’s Perspective, as a means of sharing my thoughts and reflections on a variety of topics. At times it has served as a forum for discussion and always a learning place for me as it is in the expression of these thoughts that I have been able to crystallize my thinking and name what is important to me. I know that it is my responsibility as a clergyperson to give voice to issues that we as Christians and responsible citizens need to address and this has given me a place to do so. So, why have I found it increasingly difficult to do this? Perhaps, it is because I feel that the thinking about such subjects is shaped for many persons by influential factors other than faith and reason. I have become discouraged in our ability to have productive discussions. But, my call to ministry as a deacon invokes a commitment to connect our faith beyond the steeple. Social media, including blogging, may be an important way. I am willing to try. Blog #639.