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The collection is edited by Dr Heidi A. Campbell, professor of communication at Texas A&M University and director of the Network for New Media, Religion and Digital Culture Studies. In 2020, the Network started Digital Religion Publications to provide cutting edge resources for religious groups and research reports aimed at Digital Religion scholars that highlight current research study findings.
In a section entitled “Scholars Observations of Patterns and Trends Found in Churches Technology Engagement,” the WCC communications team, led by WCC communication director Marianne Ejdersten, describes ways in which the WCC was able, even amid COVID-19, to maintain a global presence while, at the same time, be attentive to grassroots needs and stories from its member churches.
“Above all, the WCC wanted to be present for its member churches, its partners, its staff, and the world, by bringing hope to people that God was and is still present in their lives,” reads the text.
The chapter goes on to answer that question, outlining both the inspirational foundation and specific communication tools employed.
“From the start of the pandemic, the WCC underscored its work and its messages with the realization that we are one world and one humanity that must live and act together in love and care for each other and for our creation,” reads the text.
This latest eBook provides a follow-up to the conversations begun by contributors from “The Distanced Church” eBook, which was published a year ago. That eBook captured and documented the reactions of pastors who were both overwhelmed by the forced move of the church online, as well as excited about the possibilities that digital media offered.
Campbell, Heidi A, editor (2021). Revisiting the Distanced Church. Available electronically here.
