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COVID-19 has forced even the most affluent social butterflies among us to go into isolation to avoid potential contact with the virus as much as possible. This has been more difficult for some, but luckily, today’s technology keeps us informed, updated, and connected more than ever before. It’s certainly the first time in history that you can click a button and see anyone’s face in full high-definition!
These five community apps are working to keep people connected during the pandemic. From prayer apps for spiritual connections to Zoom and everything in between, this list has something for the gamer, socializer, evangelist, and everyday person. Keep reading to learn more about these five community apps.
1. Pray.com
As the world’s #1 app for daily prayer, Pray.com is working to bring people together through the power of faith and prayer. Whether you’re new to the faith or have been practicing for decades, the website has something to offer everyone. You’ll find daily prayers for every occasion, so you don’t have to keep reciting the same ones you learned in grade school. You’ll also get access to special features like James Earl Jones Reads The Bible and sermons by renowned pastor Samuel Rodriguez.
The power of prayer can help guide you through the COVID crisis and prayer apps help keep every one of the faith connected and praying for a speedy end to the virus. If you’re not sure about prayer apps, you can try the Pray app for free before signing up for a premium package.
2. Zoom
Since the onset of COVID in the early months of 2020, Zoom has seen its user base explode, bringing in millions of new users from all over the world. After all, we still need to host meetings, seminars, training exercises, work calls, and, of course, stay in touch with loved ones. Sometimes, a phone call just isn’t enough, and we need to see their faces!
Zoom keeps us connected through HD-quality audio and video conference calls that you can host or join from anywhere with an internet connection. This free and easy to use tool has been adopted by businesses and individuals alike for its flexibility and versatility. It’s likely that we’ll see a lot more digital meetings in the future thanks to Zoom’s crucial role in the COVID-19 recovery process.
If you have relatives or friends who live across the world or even across town who you can’t see because of social distancing, use Zoom instead. A video call is about as close as you can get to an in-person visit—without potentially contracting the virus.
3. Facebook Messenger
Of course, you can always just use your Facebook Messenger app instead, since it has a video calling feature already built into it. Facebook has also created a conference calling service for its users that is completely free of charge. This is perfect for friendly reunions, digital visits with family members, or even hosting a church service from the comfort and safety of your home.
Facebook is used by billions of people all over the world, and with so many connections, you won’t miss a beat. You can also find news on Facebook, as well as groups that you can join to continue your social activities while still practicing social distancing.
People of all ages use Facebook messenger. It allows you to communicate over geographical distances, is free to use, and can be used even if you don’t have a Facebook account. You also don’t need an active Facebook app on your phone to use the service.
4. Netflix Party
Remember the days when you could have people over to watch the season finale or even a great movie together? You still can with Netflix Party, which is a free browser extension that allows you to view Netflix films and TV shows with friends. Featuring a chatbox and synchronized video playback, you can watch movies with friends while social distancing.
Share your favorite insights or comments, ask about movie trivia, and more with the service that’s attracted over ten million people so far. The best part? It’s free! Installation is fast and easy, and it links to your pre-existing Netflix account so you’re not paying anything extra for the service.
Long-distance movie parties are now possible no matter where you are!
5. Steam
This one’s for the gamers out there who want to stay connected during the pandemic. Steam is a desktop app that features thousands of games, groups, and a friends/group chat feature that can keep everyone in your party connected and gaming. The days of sitting in each others’ living rooms with multiple TVs going at once are long gone, but that doesn’t mean that cooperative gameplay is dead. Tools like Steam help gamers stay connected and working towards completing their quests.
The Future
We hope to see COVID disappearing by next year, but unfortunately, only time will tell. Until then, these five apps will help keep people from all walks of life connected, spiritually in-tune, and entertained until the crisis is over. Be strong, hang in there, and be sure to make time for those you love—even if it’s just a video chat.
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This content is sponsored by Gary J Wilkinson.
Photo: Shutterstock