Introduction
Technology makes people’s lives easier in different areas, and religion is no exception. Markham (2020) stated that with the introduction of digital devices, more people started using them to participate in virtual religious services. Moreover, many found it easier to attend sacred sites from their comfort zone, like at home.
Technology and Religious Engagement
I believe that the use of modern advances causes more positive aspects in the support of religion. Technology might not be able to replace in-person participation in religion because, for some individuals, this activity is related to being a significant part of the community where people share the same interests. Additionally, digital appliances cannot transfer the atmosphere and all sounds, which might be important for religious people.
Pastor Miller’s Tools for Answering Life’s Questions of Meaning
When people are stuck in their thoughts, it might become difficult to cope with their emotions, and religion can help find solutions to problems. Steve Miller explained the theory of “questions of meaning,” which has two specific tools assisting people during tough times (TEDx Talks, 2015). The first is storytelling, and the second important tool is creating a community where people trust each other (TEDx Talks, 2015).
Pastor Miller’s Greatest Concern
The most significant concern about this theory is related to the fast-changing environment where people do not want to share their emotions, and stories stay hidden. Moreover, I think that people could become more individualistic, and the idea of community building may fade away shortly. Miller’s phrase “you don’t know what you got till it’s gone” refers to the idea of being part of the community and ignoring the importance of the surrounding people. Nevertheless, when problems occur, individuals start noticing the actions happening around them and the people who surround them.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the speaker has raised the important topic of being part of a social group and the importance of people who stay nearby. Even though the world is becoming more digital, the idea of religion remains traditional when people share their stories and attend in-person meetings to feel needed. Digitalization will not have a negative effect on religion but will help individuals meet their personal needs in this area of life.
References
Markham, T. (2020). Digital Life. Polity Press.
TEDx Talk (2015). Millennials as Spiritual Free Agents | Steve Miller | TEDxUSD [Video]. YouTube. Web.