As traditional institutions like the Church experience declines in participation, many individuals sense a growing void in their communal lives. This shift has prompted a significant turn towards virtual platforms for social interaction. Online communities, while offering valuable connections and relationships, cannot fully replace the unique benefits of in-person interactions. Historically, even ascetic monks, known for their solitude and spiritual discipline, often maintained some level of communal relationship with their peers, underscoring the intrinsic human need for face-to-face contact.
Building community remains a fundamental aspect of spiritual life, evident across various religious and spiritual traditions. In-person interactions foster a deeper sense of belonging and support, providing tangible expressions of care and empathy that are harder to replicate online. These relationships enable individuals to experience a more profound connection, not just with each other but also with their spiritual practices. As such, while digital connections are a beneficial supplement, especially in a modern context where geographical and temporal barriers loom large, they should be balanced with efforts to sustain and nurture physical community spaces. These spaces are essential for fully expressing and developing communal and spiritual lives.