Friday, March 1, 2013

Social Media Matters in the Church, Even for Non-Users

"Why do social media ministry in the church? My members are older, and maybe only 20% use Facebook."

I've heard and read statements like the one above in various forms since beginning this work about 3 1/2 years ago. Undeterred, the operative principle is to go where the people are. Social media usage is growing among the general population, but this does not mean that non-users are left behind.

Yesterday, I shared a quilting picture with our Facebook followers and a few words about their work. Later that evening, while talking on the phone with one of the quilters (a non-Facebook user), she said to me, "I heard I was on Facebook."



While I was curious as to whether the Facebook appearance was a bad thing, she proceeded to tell me that her daughter saw the post. They shared a conversation about the quilts and the ministry they carry--evidence that she saw the value of Facebook. She appeared tickled by what transpired.

Regardless of the percentage of social media users in your community, the communication involved matters. Even if you believe no one is paying attention.

2 comments:

  1. Amen and amen. Great example of what I call a "brand ambassador" even though some church folk freak at the word "brand."

    Completely possible that the daughter's friends also saw the post and that could stimulate further conversation. One thing leads to another and who knows? A few months later someone new may show up to prepare food for those in need.

    Sometimes I think the speed of social media itself is confused with the speed at which people typically follow through with anything.

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    1. It's moments like these that social media moves on a continuum from "threat" to "opportunity." Even better when there is no special advocacy on my part.

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