What Is It?
SMS Media Group has launched a service that sends daily bible verses to subscribers’ phones. Taken from the King James Version of the Bible, mFaith sends its inspirational messages at 11:00 a.m., Pacific Time, and includes their scripture references for further study. Through mFaith you can also choose from a selection of downloadable guardian angel wallpapers.
How
to Get It?
You sign up online at www.mfaith.com.
They request a bit more info than you would expect—mobile number,
name, email address, state, zip code, age and gender. After entering all
that information, you hit “Sign Up Now”. A few seconds later,
you receive a confirmation code, which you key in on their site to start
receiving messages. You receive a confirmation text message immediately
after you submit your code, stating that within 24 hours you will receive
your first Bible message.
From the View of MYIQ
This service is a great example of how technology can modernize and transform
the reputation of an organization or brand. Even those panelists who were
not “into” religion, were surprised and pleased to see religion
entering this space…
“I think its cool, pretty hi tech for religion!,” texted a panelist.
and…
“very interesting—i didnt know a service like this existed. Seems like a very good idea and it keeps your faith in your everyday life”
For those on our panel that describe themselves as more religious, the service was well received. One MYIQ panelist texted that he liked its convenience:
“It gives you instant insight each day instead of one having to open the bible every day and find an inspirational passage. Great for a student, a worker, etc.”
Others responded that they would be more interested in the service if it incorporated other religions.
“I would subscribe 2 this and 2 1 like this 4 Muslims, as I am Muslim,” one panelist wrote.
Of course, even some who share the faith of the bible admitted that they wouldn’t subscribe to mFaith.
Explained one panelist, “I like the idea of getting news by text but I don’t like the bible passages.”
Learning
Text as a private medium can be a great tool to connect and interact with
people on topics that are personal. When it comes to religion and messages
of faith, the only relevant messages are those that are specific to your
own beliefs. That said, use of mobile media can do wonders for the reputation
of a brand (or religious organization) within the youth market.
© 2005 North Castle Nextstep and Enpocket. All Rights Reserved.