Title: Evaluating the Impact of Social Media Ministry on Gen Z Spiritual Formation in Iringa Municipal.
Authors: Gwamaka Mpeli Mwaisumbe
Volume: 10
Issue: 5
Pages: 206-219
Publication Date: 2026/05/28
Abstract:
This study examined the impact of social media ministry on the spiritual formation of Generation Z in Iringa Municipal, Tanzania. The purpose was to assess how digital religious engagement influenced youth spiritual practices, beliefs, values, identity formation, and to identify the opportunities and challenges associated with online ministry. A descriptive survey design was employed, involving 118 respondents selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and semi-structured interviews, and analyzed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. Findings revealed that social media ministry positively influenced spiritual practices, with nearly half of respondents reporting increased prayer and Bible reading. Similarly, beliefs, values, and spiritual identity were strengthened for a majority of participants. The study also identified high accessibility and relevance of content as key opportunities, while digital distractions, inconsistent teachings, and limited access for some youth were significant challenges. Limitations included the reliance on self-reported data and the focus on a single municipal area, which may affect generalizability. The study offered practical implications for church leaders and digital ministry practitioners to design engaging, contextually relevant content and provide guidance to mitigate online distractions. Socially, it highlighted the potential of digital platforms to foster inclusive spiritual engagement among youth. The study was original in focusing on Generation Z within the Tanzanian context and integrating multiple dimensions of spiritual formation. In conclusion, social media ministry significantly shaped youth spirituality, and recommendations included enhancing accessibility, content relevance, and integrating online with offline spiritual practices.