ChristiaNet.com (http://www.christianet.com), the world's largest Christian portal with twelve million monthly page loads, asked readers to participate in a new survey by answering the question, "Have you used a penpal site to make a friend?" An overwhelming majority responded "yes" to the survey question. Out of 313 responses, there were 207 participants who have made friends through social networks on the Internet. One of the Believers wrote, "Via ChristiaNet, I have made over 60 friends from locations all over the world." (http://www.christianet.com/christianpenpals/)
The survey reveals that Believers are hungry for fellowship with other Christians. Online forums provide a way for God's children to come together, not only to make new friends, but to minister to one another. Many readers have a need that is fulfilled through social networks. One Believer stated, "I need someone to talk and relate to, someone who can give me advice." It is evident through the results of this survey that a multitude of readers enjoy using free penpals to meet new people. Comments show that Believers also find joy in becoming prayer partners with other Christians.
One hundred readers answered "no" to the survey question. There were various reasons given by readers in this group as to why they haven't used free penpals online to make new friends. One reader wrote, "I have plenty of friends already!" Some readers confessed that they have just never tried it. Bill Cooper, President of ChristiaNet, suggests, "Some Believers use social networks as a way to share their love for Jesus, and give encouragement to other Christians."
There were only 6 participants in this survey who were unsure about free penpals. Comments were limited with this small group but the responses show that some readers who are unsure about making new friends online just haven't had any success at doing so. Since the responses in this survey overwhelmingly show that many readers have had success making friends on the Internet, it might be worth the effort to keep trying. Certainly, the Lord wants us to have fellowship with other Believers. Consider what this participant had to say, "It takes time for a friendship to form, but a penpal through extended contact can eventually become a really good friend." For more information, visit: http://www.christianet.com/articles/
About ChristiaNet
ChristiaNet.com (http://www.christianet.com), the world's largest Christian portal with twelve million monthly page loads, receives around one million visitors per month and has 400,000 email subscribers who have access to an online shopping mall, job bank, Biblical and life application resources, free ecards, Christian blogs and friendship communities.
