We Are Intimately Linked
In the first World Communications Day message in 1967, Pope Paul VI wrote: “The Church, realizing “that she is truly and intimately linked with mankind and its history” (The Church in the Modern World #1), wishes by means of this initiative [World Communications Day], proposed by the Second Vatican Ecumenical Council [1962-1965], to draw the attention of her children and of all men of good will to the vast and complex phenomenon of the modem means of social communication…”
In 1967, the “modern means of social communication” referred to the press, motion pictures, radio and television. But even then, it was clear that technological advances were taking place rapidly and would soon expand the reach, impact and access to communications to the whole world at the same time. The Council leaders recognized the importance of the Church valuing these advancements and using them to bring about good for all people.
On June 2, 2019, we will celebrate the 53rd World Communications Day. In his message, “We Are Members One of Another” (Ephesians 4:25). From Social Network Communities to the Human Community,” Pope Francis invites us “to once again reflect on the foundation and importance of our being-in-relation and to rediscover, in the vast array of challenges of the current communications context, the desire of the human person who does not want to be left isolated and alone.”
Pope Francis addresses both the challenges and the opportunities that the Internet offers. He compares the “Net” and “community.” They are not always synonymous, although some would like us to believe that they are. While online relationships can support human community, they can also distort relationships, divide us, and lead to loneliness and social isolation especially for the young.
Pope Francis encourages us to use our Internet connections to build and strengthen community. He concludes his message with this:
“The image of the body and the members reminds us that the use of the social web is complementary to an encounter in the flesh that comes alive through the body, heart, eyes, gaze, breath of the other. If the Net is used as an extension or expectation of such an encounter, then the network concept is not betrayed and remains a resource for communion.…
“This is the network we want, a network created not to entrap, but to liberate, to protect a communion of people who are free.”
As we approach the 53rd Annual World Communications Day, let us ask ourselves and our colleagues how we are using social communications, especially Internet-based communications, to reach out, to support community and advance “justice, peace, freedom and human progress” for all.
Please share your thoughts and questions about this important topic.