The Christian Lent begins after Shrove Tuesday and lasts until Easter. Historically, the tradition has been about abstaining from meat. This year, both the Pope and the Swedish cardinal, Anders Arborelius, have recommended restraint in speech and writing ahead of Lent.
In response, Helén Tanzborn, from the Church of Sweden in Hudiksvall, has chosen to completely abstain from Facebook and other social media during the 40 days leading up to Easter. For Helén Tanzborn, it is about regaining control over her attention. She said, "I notice that it is just scrolling that takes my time and my energy.
I am on Facebook and see what people write to each other.
" Meanwhile, Elisabeth Andersson, who has her religious home at the Catholic chapel in Sörforsa, once the Catholic Church's northernmost outpost in Sweden, remains on the platforms but refrains from commenting. " The background for these changes is the harsh climate online. Elisabeth Andersson added, "One does everything to be right and hurts others with one's comments.
" Both women believe that the most important thing is what you choose to do instead of what you remove. The specific recommendations from the Pope and Cardinal Anders Arborelius regarding restraint in speech and writing have not been detailed. How widespread this practice is among Christians in Sweden remains unclear.
I notice that it is just scrolling that takes my time and my energy. Lent is an opportunity for me to get a restart to what I think is important.
One does everything to be right and hurts others with one's comments. During Lent, I take a step back to weigh my words.