There’s a new book out that you may find interesting. Windows PCs in the Ministry by Steve Hewitt (Thomas Nelson, 2010) starts with this description: “This book will present a variety of ways to use technology to enhance and expand ministry using Windows programs and Internet services.” And that it does - the Table of Contents alone is 5 pages long! I know Steve as the editor of Christian Computing World, which I’ve been reading off and on for almost 20 years, and have been contributing to for the past year.

But the real reason for this post is to celebrate what Steve has to say about Hschooler.net in the book.

Pages 78 - 119 deal with social networking, so it is a major theme in the book. Steve starts the section by saying “Social networking has established a strong foothold in our society, and one that will undoubtedly continue to grow.” The first subsection is “Problems, Concerns and Warnings” setting the tone for much of the chapter. Steve delves into major social networking services including MySpace, Facebook, and Twitter. He describes the ways in which these popular services can be used for evangelism and for connecting with other believers. He also deals with the concerns and issues with each. He also provides an entire section on “How Can I Protect My Children on Social Networking Sites?” This is a great resource for parents!

Next, Steve delves into “Christian Alternatives for Social Networking” providing profiles of nine different Christian social networking services. He closes this section with a subsection titled “Warning to Parents” which starts this way: “If the purpose of allowing your children to use a Christian social networking site instead of Facebook is for security, you need to give this some thought. On many of the sites I visited, I found less security than on Facebook.”

The very next subsection is “One Christian Social Networking Site Gets Two Thumbs Up.” Guess who he’s talking about… Yep, Hschooler.net.

“After expressing my concerns about security for young people using social networking sites, even Christian social networking sites, I can recommend one site for those that want a site centered on security and safety for their family.”

Thanks Steve!

I hope and pray that we can continue to improve our service’s ability to meet the unique needs of Christian families.