Amazingly, new technology divides people in their opinions, even in the LDS church. In
this article by Kathleen Lubeck in 1984, we see the two very different opionions of leaders in the church. The article quotes Dean R. Cannon, managing director of the Church’s Information Systems Department, and amazingly, he, the IT director, is suspicous of technology:
“Too much dependence on computers can cause a person to be less
receptive to the promptings of the Spirit,” said Brother Cannon. “If a
priesthood leader relies too heavily on computerized information at his
fingertips, there’s a danger that he might not realize when an
individual has a problem and needs help."
While Parley Fullmer, director of Recording and Ordinance Procdures, said this in the same article:
“The use of computers dramatically increases our efficiency...even
the atmosphere in the temple is more reverent..."
Looking back on both comments today, they are both absurd. A lot of typing goes on in our temples, but it doesn't bother us. Computers are an integral part of information management about our members, but the bishop can still receive revelation to do his job. Time has shown technology to be a neither friend nor foe, just like a garden hoe is a tool, and nothing more.
Fear always come with the new.
ReplyDeleteI think both have a valid point, but are incorrectly pointing at technology as the source of the problem/solution. Anytime we allow our tools to become our only means of leadership within the church, we have a problem. If we read book, and believe the answer are there without turning to the Lord, we have problem. The same if we use other technology exclusively, or even if we only rely on ourselves and/or our councilors. Every calling should be a combination of using the tools God has given us, but make sure, through prayer and inspired meditation, that our choices are what God wants.
ReplyDeleteThe same goes for the temple. Anything that promotes efficiency and a spirit of reverence is good. But we still need to listen to the spirit as we use these tools, and make sure that we are doing the Lord's work.