Facebook Introduces Tools To Engage Communities During COVID-19 

In the midst of  the current COVID-19 outbreak, most popular social media platfor, Facebook has introduced tools that would help faith groups stay connected and engaged.

These tools are Facebook pages, Facebook groups, Facebook events, Watch party? Facebook live and WhatsApp. While leveraging on resources like “Faith on Facebook Resource Hub” (www.Facebook.com/community/faith) and the Faith on Facebook toolkit (https://bit.ly/3a2b4F3), to offer guidance and tips that faith-based groups could use to  engage their communities when observing social distancing, which is necessary to prevent spread of the ravaging virus.

In a statement by Facebook, the tools are part of its ongoing efforts in keeping communities safe, connected and informed during this pandemic.

Facebook Pages: Explore how to build an active and engaged audience of faith communities, advice on posting interesting content, as well as creating events and using Groups for discussions.

Facebook Groups: Groups allow people to come together around a common cause, discussing issues and ideas, posting photos and sharing related content.

Facebook Events: Host virtual events using Facebook Events to spread the word.

Utilising WhatsApp: Consider sending bite sized sermons or recordings through the voice note feature on WhatsApp to members, using either the dedicated broadcast list function or creating a New Group list.

Watch Party: Host a Watch Party for your Group, choosing videos that are relevant to your community and invite members to join and discuss.                                          Facebook Live: Stream live stream events and performances on Facebook, utilizing interactive features such as reactions, shares and comments enabling you to further engage your audience.