This month we’re exploring all about faith and technology and the impact that they have on our lives. So, we sat down with Paula, our CBN Europe Social Media Coordinator for a little chat where she shared some really useful wisdom! 

What is your role here at CBN Europe?

I’m the Social Media Coordinator which means I oversee the Social Media team, creating content for our website, magazine and social media. I’m also the Branding Manager which means helping keep everyone on track with our message and how that looks visually, etc.

What’s your favourite social network?

I love Pinterest (if you don’t know what that is, check out this article!) and Instagram. I’m a very visual person and those social networks have lots of pictures and visual inspiration!

Why do you think social media is so important?

I’m from Brazil so my family are thousands of miles away. So, social media brings me into the reality of people’s lives. I can see my friends kids growing up, I can watch what’s happening in my family. It’s all about connection: it makes it easier to feel close to them!

How can Christians use their social media in a way that brings glory to God?

Well… The same as they can in their offline lives: by reflecting a life dedicated to God, where Jesus can be seen. That applies to what you share, what you post, what you click on. It’s a good tool for sharing the Word and encouraging people.

What are some things that we should remember about social media?

Sometimes, online, we put on a fake self. We display a life that no-one can relate to, it’s so perfect and unattainable. Social media has to be real and honest.

Secondly, we can often forget that there’s actually real people behind a profile. Just because we disagree with something and we can’t see someone face to face, doesn’t give us the right to be mean or rude.

Finally, it’s okay to take your friendships offline. It’s a weird thing for a Social Media Manager to say but sometimes you need to put down your phone and make the same effort in real life as you do online. There’s something special about that.