austraLasia #2852
Gospel content in communications
- but beware, 'There be dragons'!
Two events in recent days (in fact more, but some of
these can await a later dispatch) highlight the importance
of Gospel content in communications. Both events involve
one or more Salesians. Read on....
DAEJONG, Korea: 7 May 2011 -- Twelve young Salesian
Korean priests have met for a two day quinquennium session
at the Salesian community and Youth Training Centre at
Daejong, some 200 kms south of Seoul. The community is
appropriately located between Seoul and Kwangju, two
locations where most of the group are engaged in their
apostolate. Two of the group were already at Daejong, where
they are members of the community.
The first session for the two days (May
7) gave consideration to a Salesian evangelising and
educating presence in the digital continent, especially in
the social networking scene. Entitled 'Pursuing the right
presence', the presentation by the secretary of the Social
Communication Department in Rome drew on the release of the
film 'There be Dragons' (released 6 May 2011, directed by
Roland Joffé, director of The Mission and The
Killing Fields), and 'mapped' the digital continent of
social networking, suggesting that in the language of many
in Salesian circles there is often a 'There be Dragons'
warning; even GC26 spoke of 'personal and convergent media'
in a tone that suggested peril as well as potential. He
suggested an alternative and informed approach involving
reflection and discernment which could determine the
message, attitude and goal of self-publishing and content
creation in view of both education and disseminating the
Gospel
The presentation was offered to encourage
a dialogue, and the speaker had little choice but to admire
a policy that has meant, over the years, that almost every
young Korean Salesian has not only studied English but feels
proficient enough to engage in debate in that language.
Given that most present (except the speaker and the Vice
Provincial, who is also the Rector of the Daejong community)
were 'digital natives', it was an enlightening discussion!
The group will continue their reflections
through Sunday before returning to their communities. As
Sunday 8 May is also 'parents day' in Korea, they are
looking forward to at least exchanging greetings with their
families - with an iPhone or similar if nothing else is
possible!
------------
New Caledonia: 3 May 2011 -- “The task of
communicating the ‘Good News’ is an important ministry of
the Church. And, while you use the modern means of
technology, ensure that the message is filled with Gospel
content.” said Apostolic Nuncio Archbishop Daniel Balvo, as
he addressed the members of SIGNIS Pacific, on 3rd May, 2011
at Maison d’Accueil, Mont Mou, New Caledonia.
22 members attended the SIGNIS Pacific
meeting and workshop which commenced on 2 May, 2011.
Several International SIGNIS Board members were present for
the meeting - a sign that the Pacific forms an important
region in the church. Their insights and experience of
communications and their special areas of interest were
shared at the various presentations.
SIGNIS International president, Augustine
Loorthusamy, who hails from Malaysia, in a very lively and
animated session highlighted the need for members to ensure
that they witness to Gospel values in their lives. “As
‘digital immigrants’ we need to ensure that the ‘digital
natives’ use the digital media for the good of all”, he
reminded the gathering.
Cuban national, Gustavo Andùjar,
and International vice-president, shared his keen interest
in using Video Journalists to convey powerful messages
through the media. “There is great potential for our
young to express themselves through images”, he said.
Inspiring presentations, personal
reflections and lively discussions were part of every
session. The assembly formulated a Declaration
calling for the church, governments and other authorities to
foster the growth of communications infrastructure that will
assist with the development of the region. “Increased
capacity, particularly for remote and outer islands and
isolated villages are vital if people are to share in the
benefits these technologies bring to human development”, it
stated.
Freelance video producer, SIGNIS
Vice-president and SIGNIS Pacific Treasurer and Secretary
for the past 20 years, Peter Thomas was thanked for his
dedication and commitment to this vital task in the
Pacific. “We will miss you immensely”, said Fr.
Ambrose Pereira sdb, President, as he thanked Peter Thomas
for his many years of joyful service. Agatha Ferei,
has been elected to fulfill the role.
_________________
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