The issue with cell phones is that they are more intrusive and typically communicating with someone about something else. Twitter being used to engage other people about the Word that is being delivered is incredible.

In a Faith that is so built upon “engaging” others, why would we not utilize tools that engaged those outside of the immediate walls of a conference or service?

I am all about respecting others, but the Church’s inclination to respect those who like tradition has not served it well over the years.

Obviously, I think twittering in church is a good thing. I tried to be discreet and didn’t tweet every little thing. Just the main points of the service (worship, communion time, etc.) I’m going to have to make sure my pastor gets that Time article, thanks.

Monica in NJ

Many people at Q kept their laptops open. I chose to keep mine closed to respect the sensibilities of the organizers. Those with open computers used them to take notes….. that’s basically the same as blogging or micro-blogging. So, as internet accessibility grows, we are likely to enter an era where those for whom it’s normative (ie iGeneration) will find ways to access it everywhere.

That said, there are always restrictions on tech. High School students don’t talk on their phones during school classes, etc. But, restricting the ‘back channel’ of conversation during public events may be increasingly viewed with disdain.

I’m from the UK and I go to a church where there will be about 300 people in a service (of which there are 4 each Sunday) and I’m wondering what sort of size are the churches in the States where twittering is the norm?