Shikrot Mpwi - Sunday Synopsis
with Fr. Justine J. Dyikuk
Seventh Sunday of Easter, Year C – World
Communication Sunday –June 2, 2019.
Readings: Acts 17:55-60;
Responsorial Psalm Ps 97:1-2b.6.7c.9(R.1a.19a);Rev.
22:12-14.16-17.20& Gospel John 17:20-26.
Theme: “We are Members One of Another”
(Eph 4,25):
From Social Network Communities to the Human Community.
Introduction
Beloved in
Christ, today is World Communications Day (WCD). In his 53rd World
Communications Day message titled“We are Members One of Another” (Eph 4,25):
From Social Network Communities to the Human Community,”the Holy Father, Pope
Francis gave a theological appraisal of advances in media technology while
challenging the world to appreciate human communication as an essential
component of social networking. While charging all to use the media in the
service of humanity, the message urges Directors of Social Communications,
Catholic Media Practitioners, Media Professionals and indeed and all Media
Workers to use this day to advance the course of human communication in such a
manner that it showcases the Church’s understanding of good communication.
Instead of preaching on the normal readings for 7th Sunday of
Easter, we shall highlight essential points from the message of the Roman
Pontiff.
Punchy Notesfrom Pope Francis’ 2019 WCDMessage
1. Since its
arrival, the Church has always promoted the Internet as a vehicle of encounter
between people and solidarity among them.
2. In the face
of myriad challenges, current communications should be viewed in the context of
human relations towards rediscovering cooperation, interaction and human
solidarity.
3. Based on the
metaphors of the Net and Community, the Net is a resource of our time which is
a source of knowledge and relationships that were once unthinkable.
4. While
technology has brought about profound transformations in the process of
production, distribution and use of content, the Internet brings about the
extraordinary possibility of access to knowledge.
5. However,
experts have noted that it has also brought about risks which threaten the
search for, and sharing of, authentic information on a global scale.
6. Regrettably,
the Internet has also become one of those areas which are most exposed to
disinformation, conscious and targeted distortion of facts and an instrument
that is often used to discredit interpersonal relationships.
7. Social
networks which help in connecting, rediscovering and assisting human beings to
relate with one another are also used for manipulation of personal data of
others for obtaining political or economic advantages thus demeaning the
self-worth and rights of others.
8. Statistics
show that among young people, one in four is involved in episodes of
cyberbullying.
9. The metaphor
of the Net which was the basis of the Internet invites us to reflect on the
multiplicity of lines and intersections towards ensuring its stability in the
absence of a centre, a hierarchical structure and a form of vertical
organization.
10. From an
anthropological point of view, the metaphor of the Net recalls the image of the
community that is stronger, cohesive, supportive and animated by feelings of
trust even as it pursues common objectives.
11. The
community is a network of solidarity which requires mutual listening and
dialogue based on the responsible use of language.
12. As social
network communities, virtual communities demonstrate cohesion and solidarity as
well as groups of individuals who recognize one another through sharing common
interests or concerns characterized by weak bonds.
