The Virtual Body of Christ in a Suffering World: Thompson, Deanna A.: 9781501815188: Amazon.com: Books
We live in a wired world where 24/7 digital connectivity is increasingly the norm. Christian megachurch communities often embrace this reality wholeheartedly while more traditional churches often seem hesitant and overwhelmed by the need for an interactive website, a Facebook page and a twitter feed. This book accepts digital connectivity as our reality, but presents a vision of how faith communities can utilize technology to better be the body of Christ to those who are hurting while also helping followers of Christ think critically about the limits of our digital attachments.
This book begins with a conversion story of a non-cell phone owning, non-Facebook using religion professor judgmental of the ability of digital tools to enhance relationships. A stage IV cancer diagnosis later, in the midst of being held up by virtual communities of support, a conversion occurs: this religion professor benefits in embodied ways from virtual sources and wants to convert others to the reality that the body of Christ can and does exist virtually and makes embodied difference in the lives of those who are hurting.
The book neither uncritically embraces nor rejects the constant digital connectivity present in our lives. Rather it calls on the church to a) recognize ways in which digital social networks already enact the virtual body of Christ; b) tap into and expand how Christ is being experienced virtually; c) embrace thoughtfully the material effects of our new augmented reality, and c) influence utilization of technology that minimizes distraction and maximizes attentiveness toward God and the world God loves.
Editorial Reviews
About the Author
Dr. Deanna A. Thompson is professor of Religion at Hamline University in St. Paul, Minnesota. She teaches classes in African American Studies, Women's Studies, and Social Justice. During her almost twenty years at Hamline, in addition to being awarded Faculty of the year by faculty and students, she has also received awards for her advising. She is a respected scholar in the study of Martin Luther and feminist theology. Thompson is also an active member of the American Academy of Religion, where she served for eight years on the Board of Directors, six years as Director of the Upper Midwest Region, and six years as co-chair of the Martin Luther and Global Lutheran Traditions Program Unit.
Product details
Paperback: 142 pages
Publisher: Abingdon Press (November 1, 2016)
Language: English
5 star 100%
Top Reviews
Craig L. Nessan
5.0 out of 5 stars Paying Attention to Virtual Relationships as Genuine MinistryReviewed in the United States on December 24, 2016
"The body of Christ has always communicated virtually from the times of the New Testament epistles to today's multiple means of virtual connectivity. Thompson is discerning in making her case for the value of these contemporary forms. She is fully aware of how online involvements can create dependency, be shallow, or even cause harm. Illness, however, was the occasion for her conversion from skepticism to critical appreciation of electronic communications to extend neighborliness.
Thompson makes clear the indispensable value of embodied relationships. Nothing can replace face-to-face encounters with other persons. And where we already have personal relationships with others, these can be nurtured and deepened with the ongoing contact made possible over distance. Yet Thompson also testifies how messages from persons previously unknown to her established bonds of affection and care even though these relationships were only formed through virtual means. At their best e-communications can provide a deepening of relationships through thoughtfully composed mutual sharing.
Very balanced and compelling in her argument, Thompson would have us take the time to pay attention to one another at the heart of the matter."
Excerpt from review in Currents in Theology and Mission.
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Lydia Christopher
5.0 out of 5 stars A touching, important, intelligent book that gives you tons to ponder.Reviewed in the United States on January 4, 2017
Format: Kindle Edition
This is a touching, important, intelligent book that gives you tons to ponder. It would work for a church book group, a graduate theology class or a wine and cheese party with old friends. Whatever the setting it will give you plenty to laugh, cry and talk about. Deanna Thompson's last book HOPING FOR MORE is one of the best I have ever read about living with cancer, and this follow up does not disappoint, but enlarges the conversation. Stop surfing amazon and read this book instead!
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