The purpose of Catholic Web Solutions is to help Catholic organizations and religious communities think strategically about using the Internet and Social Media for mission. This transformation from old world to new world communications isn’t easy. As I work on projects with communities and organizations that want to move forward with technology (as opposed to those who have no interest at all), I see some common challenges.
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Are You “LinkedIn”?
Why should you as a ministry professional want to be on LinkedIn? What is LinkedIn anyway? Let me begin to answer by asking another question. Have you ever benefitted from the expertise and experience of peers and colleagues? I know that I have. More than once another professional has given me insights into resources, next steps, and experts that I may not have found on my own. They have recommended…
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Communications and Ministry in the Digital Age
On January 24, 2011, the Vatican released Pope Benedict XVI’s message for the 45th World Communications Day (June 5, 2011). In this message, the Holy Father invites “Christians, confidently and with an informed and responsible creativity, to join the network of relationships which the digital era has made possible… The web is contributing to the development of new and more complex intellectual and spiritual horizons, new forms of shared awareness.…
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Twitter for Ministry?
When I tell people that I really like Twitter, they sometimes look puzzled. I imagine that they are thinking—Are you crazy? How do you have time to spend on Twitter? I like Twitter because I can get the latest information, quick facts or leads on just about any topic or product that I want anytime I want. I have learned a lot about social media, current events, products, services, and…
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Five Tips to Improve Your Social Media Presence
The use of social media is growing exponentially. For those who are new to this form of communication—it might seem like a free-for-all or a waste of time with little art or purpose. However, social media is having its impact on society and if we want to influence the world (or at least our niche in the world); we need to be using social media. The best way to start…
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What is a Facebook Page and Should Your Ministry Have One?
Facebook is an online social networking platform that offers three ways to interact with people: profiles (usually for friends and family); groups (around any common interest) and pages (for businesses, schools, and organizations–in other words, real entities). Each of these ways to be present on Facebook is unique in design and functionality according to the relationships being formed. In this article I want to discuss the Facebook page and show…