ActsSocial launches faith-first social platform built for community

ActsSocial is publicly launching a faith-first social platform that already has more than 7,000 verified members across 195 countries. The ad-free service is positioning itself as an alternative to outrage-driven social media, with tools for prayer, devotionals, local groups and community connection.

Why it matters: - ActsSocial is entering the social media market with a message that directly challenges ad-driven, engagement-first platforms. - The platform is targeting users who want online spaces centered on encouragement, faith and local community rather than outrage and endless scrolling. - ActsSocial is already active in 195 countries, showing demand for a global alternative before its public launch.

What happened: - ActsSocial publicly launched as a faith-first social platform built around community and meaningful connection. - The platform says it has more than 7,000 verified members. - Membership spans 195 countries and 12 languages. - The platform grew entirely through referrals and did not use paid advertising. - Shawn Whitson, founder and CEO of ActsSocial, said users are inviting friends because they want respectful conversation and a place that leaves them feeling encouraged.

The details: - ActsSocial is ad-free and uses an interest-based experience instead of feeds designed to maximize time spent online. - The platform is built to help users discover people, conversations, churches, businesses and communities that matter to them. - Features include a built-in Bible reader with multiple translations. - ActsSocial also offers daily devotionals and faith-centered content. - Users can access a community prayer wall. - Local groups and neighborhood communities are part of the platform. - Churches, ministries, nonprofits and businesses can create free pages. - Verified real-name profiles are intended to support authentic relationships. - The platform is available worldwide and is free to join. - A public website is available for more information: More information.

Between the lines: - ActsSocial is framing itself as a response to digital fatigue, online toxicity and concerns about the effects of social media on relationships and well-being. - The company is leaning into values like gratitude, kindness and service as a product strategy, not just a brand message. - Whitson said the mission is to restore what social media was supposed to do: bring people together and strengthen communities. - The launch also signals that faith-based platforms can compete by serving identity, belonging and local connection, not just content consumption.

What's next: - ActsSocial will look to convert its early referral-driven growth into broader adoption now that the platform is publicly available. - Churches, ministries, nonprofits, businesses, families and individuals are already using the platform to connect locally and globally. - The company is likely to keep emphasizing its free, ad-free model and faith-centered features as it scales.

The bottom line: - ActsSocial is betting that a social network built on faith, encouragement and community can attract users looking for a cleaner alternative to outrage-driven platforms.