In a forward in Facebook for Pastors, Greg Atkinson, technical arts director at Bent Tree Bible Fellowship in Carrollton, Texas, believes that all pastors should be on Facebook.
Being a member of Facebook allows you to be accessible to others.
“By putting my profile out there for all to see, lots of people can see me, and about me, message me, and strike up a conversation with me,” he said.
Being a member of Facebook is in line with a Kingdom-focus.
“Through Facebook, I’ve been able to share ideas, resources and encouragement with other Church leaders, as well as receive it.
Through the various features and applications on Facebook, I am able to hear what God is doing at another church,” Atkinson said, adding that people are able to see the global Church in action, rejoicing with those who rejoice and crying with those who cry.
“We’re in this together and the friendships and associations that come from Facebook reinforce this.”
Being a member of Facebook shows that we’re all human.
“Through Facebook’s ‘Status Updates’ I am able to see someone’s mood, hear what they’re up to and get to see behind the curtain,” he said.
Being a member of Facebook gives others a look at your heart and passions.
People can find out more about you by what groups you join, what causes you support, what books you’re reading, what movies you like – all the various applications that Facebook offers, which again give others a sneak peak into what makes you tick and what drives you.
Being a member of Facebook encourages learning, sharing and discussion.
“Once you become a member of a group, you’re able to post discussion topics and questions and then begin what I call a ‘collaborative conversation,’” he said. “I’ve watched people post topics and issues that they were dealing with or wrestling with and seen others dive in to help out and share what they’ve done in their ministry. It’s truly a beautiful thing to behold.”
Facebook is another door into your local church.
“Believe it or not, there are people that came across a church first on Facebook and then visited the church in person,” Atkinson noted. “When someone is searching for a relevant ministry in their city and comes across your church’s Facebook group or one of your pastor’s profiles, this gives them a positive first impression and allows them to get to know your DNA before they step foot in your building and in many cases, before they browse your church’s web site.”