(RNS) — For tens of millions of Americans — and people around the world — social media is a daily part of life. They turn to Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X or other social media to share memes with their friends (Moo Deng, anyone?) or consume the top news story in 60 seconds or less. But an even newer phenomenon — using social media as a tool to dive more deeply into personal faith and spirituality — has emerged, appealing especially to those who may be stepping further away from religion IRL, but who are looking for community in the online world.
Here are RNS’ top picks for the most influential influencers on the virtual stage this year.
The Rev. Karla Kamstra
If the patriarchy had a TikTok nemesis, it would probably be the Rev. Karla. With over 700,000 followers, Karla Kamstra’s candid takes on deconstructing faith spaces, dissecting Bible verses or calling out toxic theology are inspiring her followers, mostly women, to find freedom and explore faith on their own terms.
A variety of recent TikTok posts by the Rev. Karla Kamstra. (Screen grab)
Her book, “Deconstructing: Leaving Church, Finding Faith,” tells her story of ditching evangelical dogma to embrace a more inclusive, affirming spirituality. Spoiler: It’s a lifeline for anyone who’s ever felt gaslit by Sunday sermons. “This is the time to transform,” she told RNS. “The church must have this massive paradigm shift and invite many people to the table to say: ‘Our humanity is changing. How can the church be part of it?'”
sotce
Meet Amelia, the 23-year-old behind the TikTok handle “sotce,” who’s turning Buddhist philosophy into viral content. Her journey from a Philadelphia upbringing to studying at a Buddhist monastery in India led her to share meditative videos and memes that resonate with over 420,000 TikTok followers and nearly 100,000 Instagram fans.
A variety of recent Instagram posts by sotce. (Screen grab)
Her minimalist clips, like a black cat strolling past a church, have garnered millions of views, making her an unexpected spiritual guide for Generation Z. And her online presence extends to Patreon and Substack, where she offers writings and guided meditations to over 20,000 paying subscribers. Her growing influence — along with her financial success and ties to expensive wellness and fashion brands — has led to some criticism. For now, Amelia seems focused on growing both her influence and her spiritual life.
“I am deeply faithful, and my practice and the expression of my practice are very important to me,” she told RNS earlier this year. “And I also love beauty and fashion and Prada. I’d be lying if I said I didn’t.”
Niki Patel
Niki Patel, a 36-year-old pharmacist and mom of two from New Jersey, is blending Hindu spirituality with modern parenting on Instagram. After discovering “Dr. Becky,” a conscious parenting coach, on the Instagram app, the American-born Patel realized her Hindu upbringing had much in common with these mindful parenting values. She switched her private account to public and began sharing tips with her 30,000 followers on calming toddlers with mantras, using daily prayer as family time and offering ancient wisdom on motherhood.
A variety of recent Instagram posts by Niki Patel. (Screen grab)
Patel emphasizes Hindu values such as respect and openness, aiming to bridge the gap between immigrant parents and younger Hindu Americans (especially those who live together as joint families, like her own). Her latest project, Home Shanti, offers a Family Meeting Guide to discuss festivals, gurus and Hindu mythology along with daily family check-ins in the goal of fostering communication and peace at home.
“Everything on social media is about likes and, you know, kind of all about you in a way,” she told RNS. “And in our dharma (faith), it’s more about serving others and being humble and doing the right thing. I feel like I have to really work hard to balance that in my personal life.”
The Rev. David Michael Moses
Twenty-something musician and YouTuber David Michael Moses isn’t your average priest — you’ll find him on social media sharing everything from spiritual wisdom to a good dose of Catholic humor. With his strong presence on platforms such as Instagram and X, he’s managed to blend faith and fun in a way that resonates with both the faithful and the curious.
A variety of recent Instagram posts by the Rev. David Michael Moses. (Screen grab)
Whether he’s sharing daily reflections, giving behind-the-scenes peeks into his life as a priest or cracking a lighthearted joke about navigating life’s challenges with grace, Father Moses makes spirituality feel approachable. His posts reflect a genuine desire to connect with people, showing that faith isn’t just about sermons — it’s about living in the moment. And if social media weren’t enough, Moses is also a musician and songwriter whose “Concerts for Life” have raised over $1 million to support women facing crisis pregnancies.
Miriam Malnik-Ezagui
Miriam Malnik-Ezagui is an Orthodox Jewish mom, wife and labor and delivery nurse who has taken social media by storm. With over 1 million followers on Instagram, she offers a candid and engaging look into her life of balance between professional and personal life, as well as modernity and tradition. Through her authentic and relatable content, such as sharing how she covers her hair inside and out of the delivery room, Ezagui has become a go-to source for those interested in the intersection of health care, motherhood and Orthodox Jewish culture.
A variety of recent Instagram posts by Miriam Malnik-Ezagui. (Screen grab)
Nara Smith, Ballerina Farm and ‘The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives’
2024 was undoubtedly the year for Mormon lifestyle influencers. These creators, such as TikTok sensation Nara Smith with her retro-chic homemaking videos and Hannah Neeleman of Ballerina Farm fame, showcase polished, close-to-perfect content that subtly underscores Latter-day Saint principles — family, community and a DIY ethos. The widespread appeal of their “tradwife” aesthetics has led to significant commercial success, with many other influencers launching product lines and securing brand partnerships, all while maintaining the understated presence of their faith.
And behind the perfectly frosted cupcakes and Instagram-worthy family photos, “The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives,” a 2024 Hulu series, dived into the unexpected drama, humor and grit — along with some public controversy — of women navigating faith and personal ambition in Salt Lake City. Think less “Stepford Wives” and more real-life multitasking queens who can juggle church callings, side hustles and six kids while still finding time for that perfect golden-hour selfie. It’s a mix of tradition and the 21st century, with plenty of heart — and maybe a sprinkle of caffeine-free soda.