This question of “how” to engage in what Pope Benedict XVI called the “digital continent” or what this document calls the “digital highways” goes right to the heart of what many people are struggling with at this moment. This document is a helpful examination of conscience, a handy tool that many people of faith might draw from to assist them in their own reflection on how to proceed with engaging social media at this moment in our shared history.
Organized into four parts, the document provides poignant observations and questions for reflecting on what it means to be a Christian in a digital world and on social media today. Clearly taking its guiding inspiration from Pope Francis’ 2020 encyclical letter Fratelli Tutti, the Dicastery for Communication draws on the parable of the good Samaritan to frame the text.
The first part focuses on some of the pitfalls and challenges that confront us in this digital age, including future threats that are only beginning to be spotted on the horizon, such as artificial intelligence.
To continue reading this address, click here.
Franciscan Fr. Daniel P. Horan is the director of the Center for Spirituality and professor of philosophy, religious studies and theology at Saint Mary’s College in Notre Dame
With thanks to the National Catholic Reporter (NCR) and Daniel Horan where this article originally appeared.
