This rumor is floating around on a number of web sites. Personally, I doubt it. Even so if you'd like to read the latest rumor sites, there are a number to choose from.
A couple sources quote anonymous sources, and Mashable has a lengthy write up at http://mashable.com/2008/08/21/mormon-facebook/ that analyzes the potential benefits for the church in acquiring a huge social network.
Other (similar) stories are available on WinExtra at http://mashable.com/2008/08/21/mormon-facebook/, The Industry Standard at http://www.thestandard.com/news/2008/08/20/lds-church-rumored-have-offered-facebook and at VentureBeat at http://venturebeat.com/2008/08/20/rumor-from-the-news-doldrums-of-august-mormon-church-trying-to-buy-facebook/.
The argument being put forward by Mashable and others is that the church would acquire FaceBook in hopes of integrating FaceBook's technology into church operations. I have strong doubts, however.
The Mormon Church has announced that the New FamilySearch will eventually have some elements of social networking to simplify the process of distant relatives connecting online. However, the software involved won't be all that complicated. I don't see any advantage for the Church to spend millions of dollars purchasing FaceBook when the Church's programmers can "roll their own" for a lot less money.
KSL Television in Salt Lake City on Thursday reported that a church spokesperson said, "This rumor has no foundation whatsoever." Unfortunately, the newscast did not mention the spokesperson's name or provide any other details.
Do you have an opinion or any insight into these rumors? If so, please post your comments below in the Comments section.
