There have been so many changes in the world of social media. Some people, like myself, feel the new algorithms governing the various platforms are less conducive to meaningful connection than they once were. A lot of people are looking for alternatives, but not finding what they need. Unfortunately this is likely to continue.
Our community has been together a long time now. We have formed real friendships over the course of many years. If we all lived in the same general area, it would be about time we discussed renting a physical space to call home. Since our community life is virtual, perhaps we need to rent a digital space instead?
With over 5000 people on the email list and a vibrant Chapel community, our garden has rich and dark soil, waiting to burst forth with nourishing verdancy. I see so much potential in what we have built together, and I know something beautiful will emerge if our collective creativity is given the artistic license it needs to shape and guide our community on its own terms.
Switching to a private platform has a lot of advantages:
- Everything we do in one well organised space
- Event times, readings, etc all easy to find
- Our own groups, private chats, and newsfeed
- Designed to build community, not sell your attention
- A genuinely safe space free from trolls
- Participate without Facebook
- Option to receive Chapel readings by email
- Improved quality of emails
- Updates to the website
- Actual tech support
- Dedicated support team for Justin
- More workshops and events by Justin
- Potentially more guest speakers
How well this new hypothetical space is customised to meet our needs will depend on the amount we pay, just like renting any physical space would. This community currently donates just under $1000 each month through Patreon to support my work. For this I am incredibly grateful. It is money that my family depends on to pay the bills and feed the kids. Thank you so much.
It is important to me, as well as the volunteers, that all our meetings remain free for everyone. We can actually make this happen for a remarkably reasonable price. With an additional $500, we could create a free space for our community to flourish.
With overhead expenses of $500/month and a minister’s salary of $1000/month, our church budget would still be one of the leanest in history!
If you feel called to make this happen with me, please send me an email including your name and the monthly amount you are able to contribute on an ongoing basis. At this time I am asking for pledges rather than donations. The amount of pledges we receive will determine which services we can afford.
justin@newedenministry.com
Every blessing to you, your loved ones, and your enemies.
Justin