On Sabbath, February 14, 2026, Elder Mark urged congregants to re-examine their relationship with social media, encouraging them to disconnect from digital platforms and reconnect with God.
He reminded the church that from the beginning, God created man and woman to communicate face to face. Noting that social media consumes significant time, he challenged worshippers to reflect on their first action each morning. “When you wake up, what is your first move? Do you reach for your Bible, or your phone?” he asked.
While acknowledging that technology can be both beneficial and useful, Elder Mark cautioned that it becomes harmful when it replaces prayer, Bible study, and meaningful family interaction. He cited common scenes in restaurants where individuals scroll through their phones instead of engaging in conversation, emphasizing that “we are not islands” and that without communication, life begins to break down.
The Elder encouraged families to establish “communication seasons”, intentional periods when devices are set aside to focus solely on God and one another. Couples were urged to protect their intimacy by keeping the bedroom a sanctuary for rest and prayer rather than a charging station for electronic devices.
Parents were also challenged to teach children healthy digital habits, including setting “bedtimes” for devices and helping them understand the connection between their digital behavior and their emotional, physical, and spiritual well-being.
Elder Mark suggested practical steps such as holding regular family devotions, scheduling unplugged time, sharing meals, organising game nights, participating in service projects, and creating rituals that mark the transition from digital time to sacred time.
Concluding his message, he called on everyone to intentionally disconnect from devices, spend time in prayer and Bible study, and prioritise quality time with God and family.
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