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Clergy and churches are increasingly being encouraged to use the internet and social media to promote their ministries. But they may worry about some of the difficult pastoral and theological issues that can arise online.
'Virtual vicar' the Revd Pam Smith guides both new and experienced practitioners through setting up online ministries, and considers some of the questions that may arise, such as:
- Are relationships online as valid as those offline?
- Is it possible to participate in a 'virtual' communion service?
- How do you deal with 'trolls' in a Christian way?
- What is appropriate for a clergyperson to say on social media?
s viii
Introduction ix
1 Techno Christianity 1
2 Theological understandings 11
3 Where do I start? 26
4 Pastoral care and relationships 41
5 Online discipleship and spirituality 55
6 Dealing with difficult and disruptive people 70
7 Building an online community 87
8 Looking after yourself and your team 102
Appendix 1: Example of a worship and prayer service
for a chat room 116
Appendix 2: Sample forum rules 119
Appendix 3: Further reading 122
Appendix 4: Useful websites 123
Notes 124