Why technology is not the problem

Reader Responses

When have you had a spiritual experience that was made possible by technology?

During the Covid lockdown, I was able to spend an hour or more each afternoon with my seven- and four-year-old grandchildren who live 1000 miles away while their parents were busy working from home. We played and laughed and created, but also had conversations about fear, grief, faith, and ways to connect with loved ones and friends without physical contact.

Their simple questions, ideas, hope, joy, and acceptance fed my serenity and awareness of the Light that embraces us in a way that left me calmer and more focused on the peace that comes from my faith. I’d never have imagined that a connection created by technology and without physical proximity could be that deep and lasting.

Carroll Ann S., Marquette, MI, USA

Any time I've had a spiritual experience on a mountaintop that I never would have visited if it hadn't been for internal combustion engines. Any time I've had a profound reading experience from a book that I never would have read if it hadn't been for the printing press and our transportation networks. Any time I've felt transcendence inside a sacred building that never would have been built without the legacy of architectural technology that made its construction possible. 

Spiritual experiences mediated by technology go back to awed veneration of idols carved by stone tools. Or worshipping a fire started by flint as a proxy for worshipping the sun. One could make a strong case that religion/spirituality as we understand the concepts have been mediated by technology from the start.

David S., Charlottesville, VA, USA

Since the war in Ukraine began, I have been joining the Quakers of Kyiv in a meeting for worship via Zoom. I was surprised at how meaningful this time (mostly silent) quickly became for me, as it reminds me of others’ suffering and strength and offers spiritual connection with others who care deeply.

Lois H., Pittsburgh, PA, USA

Personally, I find science, especially physics, to be deeply spiritual, and contemplating these aspects of Creation is always a profound experience. Sometimes during Silent Worship, if I'm having trouble settling in, I direct my mind to the vastness and grandeur of the cosmos - a knowledge that would not be possible without technology - and this always fills me with such awe, that I am immediately in touch with some aspect of Spirit.

Loré M., Fort Bragg, CA, USA

I believe that communication by social media and technology can deepen our face-to-face communication in meetings. Writing rather than talking encourages elaboration. There are no time limits to these e-communications.  Maybe we’d arrive at our meetings more knowledgeable on our concerns and issues.

Tom L., Louisville, KY, USA 

The meetings I’ve attended that seemed to me to be “covered meetings,” when I felt the spirit the strongest, were both via Zoom.

Kat D., Sacramento, CA, USA 

I have felt spiritually moved when reading some of the quotes offered by this website and some Quaker podcasts.

Mary Ann B., Salem, OR, USA