AKAAZUA VICTOR HANMAIKYUR
Computer Science Department,
College of Education,
Katsina-Ala.
e-mail: [email protected]
ABSTRACT
The twenty-first century is generally referred to as information age. This is an age in which Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has revolutionized communications and the speed of information dissemination. ICT refers to a broad field encompassing computers, communication equipment and services rendered by them. The church has been benefitting from ICT facilities in times past. It can benefit more from the manifold possibilities of ICT in our time. This paper attempts to review available evidences on how ICT has revolutionized communications in our society, particularly as it relates to actualizing the church’s mission. In an attempt to do so, the paper looks at ICT briefly and the role it plays in achieving church’s ministry. ICTs, like the print media, television, cell phone, computer and the internet have greatly enhanced church ministry, speeding up communications, enlarging outreaches and getting feedback quickly. ICT has now made it possible to have a church without walls, thus overcoming the problems of distance and space. Advantages and disadvantages associated with the usage of ICT are outlined, as the church needs to know them to effectively use ICT. From the paper, it is clear that if ICT is adequately used, it will help the church to fulfill her threefold mission of evangelism, edification and worship. Suggestions are finally made for a better and smooth usage of ICT by churches.
Keywords: ICT, mission, fulfill, social network