Response to “Split Over the Mormon Church, but Maintaining Some Ties” by Martin Stoltz of the New York Times:The fact that individuals communicating through the internet display no physical signature reflects the non-physical interaction between souls, and God in a Christian context. The new development of online theological debates in Mormon culture shows how the internet can be used as a “no man’s land” for religion, as well as a forum for development. Religious followers can not only lose a sense of self when worshiping online with others (via religious debate or chat room prayer), but they can now too find refuge from physical persecution when encountered with a loss of faith, or any religious problem. The website www.postmormon.org serves as a faith rehabilitation center within the sometimes strenuous Mormon community. It’s anonymous membership allows for what would normally be considered unholy behavior; a forum to question faith, as well as the dogma of the Mormon Church. Although participating in this seems like an act of of virtual disestablishmenterianism, the focus of the website is to rehabilitate Mormon followers is a non-threatening way, and thus (via the anonymous status internet interaction provides) these Mormons have found a peaceful solution to a serious problem in their community. It follows that at least, the internet has become a suitable tool for reformation within religious communities.In short, postmormon.com and the mormon community have shown how a virtual identity (or lack of identity) is harmonious with religious identity, and thus suitable for certain types religious intention.From this example: debate, inspiration, faith healing, dissension, questioning, and comforting.
