Bishop Sebastian Francis of Penang has urged Catholic communicators to pay attention to various digital communication challenges “but not be deterred by them.”
In an online forum last week, the prelate emphasized that despite the hurdles in adapting to modern communication technologies, the mission of communication must persist.
“Let us be vigilant about the pitfalls of digital communication, but not be deterred by them,” said Bishop Francis who heads the Office of Social Communication of the Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conferences.
Bishop Francis underscored the centrality of communication to the Church’s mission, stating that it is the way forward in the media age.
He urged pastoral leaders to prioritize communication formation, recognizing that effective leadership necessitates a deep understanding of this crucial aspect.
“Communication is at the heart of the Church’s mission, and it is the way forward in the so-called media age… we have to take communication formation seriously,” the prelate said.
The bishop highlighted how the Gospel of Jesus Christ provides invaluable insights into the significance of communication formation.
Quoting a document released by the Vatican Dicastery for Communication on May 29, the prelate stressed the need to establish a digital ecosystem founded on sharing, collaboration, and belonging based on mutual trust.
“Today, we have to create a ‘digital ecosystem’ that is based on ‘sharing, collaboration, and belonging based on mutual trust’,” he said.
The document titled “Towards Full Presence: A Pastoral Reflection on Engagement with Social Media” described a creative process that progresses from awareness to encounter, community, sharing, and witnessing.
Bishop Francis emphasized that Christians’ engagement in media should reflect their unity with Christ and each other.
Drawing inspiration from the Parable of the Good Samaritan, he encouraged individuals to shift their focus from “Who is my neighbor?” to “Who proves to be in solidarity with humankind?”
“In today’s digital milieu, we need to support one another, especially in the ministry of social communication,” he said. – with reports from Radio Veritas Asia
