New social network aimed at Catholics launched




January 24, 2013. (Romereports.com) In addition to Facebook and MySpace, there are a myriad of social networks tailored to each person's preferences. You can find one for motorcycle enthusiasts, dog lovers, and even for those looking for homes abroad.

So it's no surprise that among the list of niche sites is one aimed at Catholics. It's called Awestruck and, thanks in part to a very original publicity campaign, it now boasts thousands of members worldwide.

NORMAN SERVAIS
Creative Director, Awestruck 
“Catholics who want to connect with each other in a new way. Catholics who enjoy the idea of having something similar to Facebook which doesn't have advertising, which has content that's tailored for the Catholic community.”

The site's authors describe it as a sort of Facebook for Catholics. But you won't find offensive content here. However, that doesn't mean creativity is lacking.

NORMAN SERVAIS
Creative Director, Awestruck
“We thought let's get creative, let's create a platform that supports video, and that is also a very social space that can communicate Catholics in a new way. So we said, let's explore the challenges or the potential that exists today because of technology to the new things.”

Its creators say it's no coincidence that the project was developed in South Africa, a country with a small Catholic minority.

NORMAN SERVAIS
Creative Director, Awestruck
“The problem that we have in South Africa where Catholicism is a very small minority, 7% of us are Catholics. So we felt that isolation, you can say, and we were looking for new ways to get the message out in an environment where we don't have exposure on our national broadcasters. So unfortunately you cannot see Catholic contents very easily.”

Among the site's users, is a wide variety, from bloggers, housewives, and parishes, to charity groups and media. Its reach is also varied, and growing. The one place the creators are hoping to reach is Vatican City, with none other than the Pope himself. Already a Twitter user, their hope is that Benedict XVI will become a part of Awestruck.

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