Utilizing Internet Tools to Fulfill the Three-fold Mission of the Church

With the increase in use of social networking sites like MySpace and Facebook, LDS church members are finding exciting ways to preach the gospel and fulfill their callings using online tools.

Proclaiming the Gospel

LDS App - This clever Facebook App will help you share information about your faith more easily on Facebook. "Most Church members on Facebook have both Mormon and non-Mormon friends. By simply being yourself online, non-Mormons will get a feel for what you do on Sundays, where you were for 18-24 months, where you were married, and other aspects of your faith." says the More Good Foundation, owner of the app.

Many members share favorite scriptures on the "Favorite Quotes" section of Facebook.

Other members use MySpace to share testimony online and develop friendships with others throughout the world.

YouTube is being used to share video testimonies.

Perfecting the Saints

One Elders' Quorum president of a singles ward with a very large geographic area uses Facebook to help him keep track of the members of his unit. When he notices a blog post or update that indicates someone might need support, he simply gives them a phone call or writes an encouraging note on their wall.

Singles ward members in Mississippi are keeping each other informed about upcoming dances, events, and activities using Facebook notifications. After activities, members can share photographs and develop friendships on Facebook.

A group of 50-something LDS sisters uses Facebook to chat and keep each other informed about their grandchildren and friends.

Church members are using YouTube to express their artistic creativity and share multimedia presentations they create for activities.

I've used Facebook to keep up with former members of our ward who have moved. In addition to keeping in touch, we've been able to pass on Scout information and even get visiting teaching reports!

Redeeming the Dead

At MyFamily.com, users can join groups where they can share PAF files and work collaboratively with other branches of their tree. They can also update family members about their current happenings and share histories or photographs.

Share

Please share your ideas and experiences on using these tools in the comments section below.