The virtual trip took place February 1-14. Teens and youth groups participated in their own ways: posting videos of skits, updates of their Facebook status, changes on their websites and blogs, and personal emails.
The campaign was a new way to take advantage of social networking sites, says Schmoyer. “It was a good learning experience, and people were challenged in unexpected ways,” Schmoyer says.
Schmoyer has no problem sharing his faith in person, but found doing so online with others was uncomfortable. “I don’t know what to make of that,” he says, adding that at least several other people had similar experiences.
Others found it easy, however, and had a great time, says Schmoyer. He has been happy to hear the stories. A woman emailed Schmoyer to say that information about the trip kept popping up on the Facebook accounts of people she knew. That led her to purchase a Bible, which she has been reading daily.
Although it was billed as an online trip, the event emboldened some teen-agers offline, Schmoyer says. One participant shared his faith with his mother and a younger sister – both made professions of faith.
Schmoyer plans to have another online trip, but hasn’t decided on a date. He is discussing with youth leaders how to keep the momentum going.
For a previous story on the trip, click here.
