Social Media for Spirtuality during Social Distancing

As the world faces what may seem an uncertainty during the #COVID19 pandemic, one can easily fall into a state of doubt and despair. Many around the world seek some sort of spirituality and comfort but may not be able to access their normal means of inspiration due to #SocialDistancing or #StayAtHome measures.

There isnt a person who hasn’t been impacted by the coronavirus, in one way or another, and right now, many people are anxious, on edge, and afraid. As health officials around the world discourage unnecessary contact that may lead to COVID-19 infection, the crisis gives rise to social distancing and self-isolation. Following these measures, religious communities around the world are responsibly modifying their observance practices, moving community gatherings online, and praying for relief.

Some devotees around the world have embraced technology to deal with their anxiety and furfill the desire for sprituality. People are using social media to connect with fellow worshipers or organizing virtual meetings or conference calls, normally reserved for business sessions. Follow Spotlife Asia for the latest updates.

Brazilian Cardinal João Braz Cardinal de Aviz encouraged the use of modern social communication “to feel less alone and isolated and to make our voice reach the most distant communities.” The cardinal also encouraged use this period as a time of communion with those around the globe by using the means available during these ‘technological and advanced times’.

In the United Kingdom, Rabbi Alexander Goldberg is Dean of the College of Chaplains and Coordinating Chaplain at the University of Surrey, home to 16,000 students and 2,000 staff. His team of Christian, Muslim, Jewish, Hindu, Buddhist, Sikh, Baha’i, and Humanist chaplains are praying for and providing pastoral care to self-isolated and quarantined community members using video conferencing services and WhatsApp groups. 

“We’re setting up buddy systems via those groups so that people in isolation can be contacted and have a stream of online visitors and chats,” – Rabbi Alexander Goldberg.

BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, one of the largest Hindu organizations, has recently suspended all gatherings and activities across the world, but has quickly adapted to an online forum that fills the void for congregants to find comfort and solace through a sense of spiritual community. This includes its 3,850 houses of worship. In the US alone there are 125 centers affected by the coronavirus pandemic. In a time when there is uncertainty within communities, BAPS is providing unique online experiences to keep followers connected. Congregants are also utilizing other technological mediums which include social messaging, conference calls, online video platforms, and the official BAPS website to stay connected.

“It was fascinating. I missed out meeting the devotees face to face, but it still allowed us to stay connected with each other through the message of service and selfless love.”  – Dhigant Chudgar, a BAPS congregant .

BAPS, in collaboration with the volunteer medical team of its humanitarian arm, BAPS Charities, has also organized educational lectures and awareness campaigns for the public on the coronavirus pandemic.  Dr. Rajmayur Brahmbhatt, an internist from Robbinsville, NJ, said, “From the moment we heard about the Coronavirus pandemic, our team of healthcare volunteers started to distribute news and preventative topics for our congregants, their friends & families, and the community.  Being proactive in slowing down the spread of the virus is our top priority.” 

California which is one of the largest US states, religious centers have closed facilities. Iman Taha Hassane of The Islamic Center of San Diego made the decision to close all Mosques for prayers and services.

“The safety and the well-being of people is our top priority,” Hassane said. “Even though we believe it’s very important for Muslims to come to the mosque, join the rituals, the prayers, but at times like this, the safety and well being is the top priority.”

The prohibition on prayer services and teaching sessions at the mosque will stay in effect until further notice. Prayer services will be broadcast on Youtube.

As many believe religion brings people together, they are quickly taking nontraditional approches to worshipping, and connecting digitally has become the norm as traditional institutions adapot to what’s already become normal is todays digital social environment.