The Church’s Exodus from X: A Crisis of Faith in Social Media

A quiet but profound shift is taking place within the Church of England. Dioceses that once embraced the immediacy and reach of social media are turning their backs on the platform now known as X, formerly Twitter. This growing exodus raises deeper questions about the evolving role of social media in fostering connection, civility, and unity in a fragmented world.

Since Elon Musk acquired X in 2022, the platform has undergone a dramatic transformation. Musk, championing it as a haven for free expression, has also drawn sharp criticism for fostering an environment that some describe as divisive and extreme. This criticism has only intensified following his support of controversial far-right figures like Tommy Robinson and accusations of the platform’s role in amplifying incendiary content during events like the Southport riots, where three children were stabbed.

For the Church of England—an institution deeply rooted in community and compassion—these developments have posed a significant challenge. Once seen as a vital tool for engaging parishioners, connecting Christians, and amplifying messages of faith, X is now being abandoned by dioceses such as Winchester, Salisbury, and Bristol. Their departure is not merely a reaction to the platform’s content but a deeper critique of the values it now represents.

A Call to Protect Human Dignity

In a statement that reflects the broader concerns of the Church, the Diocese of Salisbury declared its discomfort with the platform’s “current direction,” highlighting the harmful impact on social cohesion and church unity. “We believe that, on balance, it serves polarisation and profit rather than connection and understanding,” the statement read.

This decision, however, is not about avoiding challenging discussions. On the contrary, it reflects a desire to foster dialogue that “honours human dignity” and builds “common life.” The diocese’s words cut to the heart of a larger issue: the erosion of civility in digital discourse and the toll it takes on communities of faith.

For the Diocese of Truro, the decision to cease activity on X was a pragmatic one. Limited resources, coupled with what it described as the “toxic” nature of the platform, made focusing on more positive spaces a priority. This pragmatic shift highlights an important reality for churches navigating the digital age: engagement is only meaningful if it aligns with the values of their mission.

The Rise of Alternatives

As dioceses abandon X, they are increasingly looking to alternatives like BlueSky, a platform with a markedly different ethos. Created by former Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey, BlueSky promises “social media as it should be,” emphasizing creativity, community, and joy. With many Christians and dioceses transitioning to this emerging platform, it represents a hopeful experiment in reclaiming the promise of social media as a force for connection rather than division.

While BlueSky remains a relatively small player compared to X, its values resonate deeply with those seeking refuge from the negativity and polarization that have come to define larger platforms. For the Church of England, which is rooted in fostering understanding and reconciliation, such spaces may be better suited to its mission of “Making Jesus Known.”

The Broader Implications

The departure of these dioceses from X reflects a larger cultural moment: the questioning of what social media platforms represent in society. Once heralded as tools of democratization and connection, platforms like X are increasingly criticized for prioritizing engagement metrics over community well-being.

For the Church, this shift raises vital questions about the intersection of faith and technology. How can institutions rooted in eternal truths navigate spaces that thrive on ephemeral trends? How can they engage the world without compromising their values?

This exodus also offers a moment of reflection for Christians everywhere. It challenges believers to consider how their online presence reflects their faith. Are their digital interactions marked by kindness, humility, and a commitment to truth? Or have they been drawn into the same divisiveness that plagues the platforms they use?

A Future Beyond X

The move away from X is not just about leaving a platform; it is a statement about the kind of world the Church wishes to build. By prioritizing spaces that encourage positive engagement and meaningful dialogue, these dioceses are making a bold declaration: the tools we use to communicate must align with the values we hold dear.

As the Church of England reimagines its digital presence, it serves as a reminder that faith is not confined to physical spaces or even specific platforms. It is a living, breathing force that adapts to new challenges while remaining steadfast in its commitment to love, justice, and community.

In leaving X, the Church is not retreating but recalibrating—seeking ways to engage that uplift rather than tear down, that unite rather than divide. This exodus is not the end of its digital journey but the beginning of a renewed commitment to using technology in ways that honor both God and humanity.

Perhaps, in this act of discernment, the Church is offering the world a powerful lesson: sometimes, walking away is the most faithful step forward.

News Source: https://premierchristian.news/en/news/article/dioceses-desert-x-for-new-horizons