Is social networking changing the face of religion?

Are online communities strengthening out interpersonal relationships, or are they isolating people even more from human companionship? Though Pope Benedict XVI has commented about the value of virtual relationships, a new poll discloses that more and more churches are using Facebook today.

In a message for the Catholic Church's World Communications Day, to be celebrated on June 5th, the pope said social networks offered great value, but he also warned about the risks of having more online friends than actual ones.

The New York Theological Seminary is an institution dedicated to multiculturalism, diversity, social justice and religious tolerance. The mission of the seminary is to prepare men and women, from every background, for careers in ministry.