ABSTRACT
The high rate of innovations and changes that has occurred in the world has impacted various religious beliefs and practices. Social media is the fastest growing web application in the 21st century. Social media has had a significant impact on religious beliefs and practices, providing platforms like Twitter, Facebook, WhatsApp, Telegram, Messenger, Snapchat, Tiktok and Instagram for people around the globe to connect, discuss and share ideas of their religious beliefs and practices. However, the emergence of social media has also raised concerns about the authenticity of information it provides the adherent. Social media has both positive and negative impacts on religious beliefs and practices. On one hand, the positive impacts of social media on religious beliefs and practices facilitate global connectivity, fostering interfaith dialogue and community building. On the other hand, the negative impacts of social media on religious beliefs and practices can also contribute to misinformation, echo chambers, and the spread of extremist views within religious communities. Overall, the impact of social media on religious beliefs and practices either it be positive impacts or negative impacts depends on how individuals engage with and navigate the digital landscape in relation to their faith. The purpose of this research is to analyse and understand the impacts of social media on religious beliefs and practices and to enlighten religious adherent on the positive and negative aspects of social media on religious beliefs and practices. The study adopts an analytical, critical and historical method of data collection. In the course of the research, books, Journals, internet materials and interviews were utilized for the actualization of this project. The research amongst others recommends that it will be momentous to analyse the role of social media in fostering religious community, promoting and facilitating religious events, discussions and exploring ethical implications.
