SUMMARY OF A PASTORAL REFLECTION ON ENGAGEMENT WITH SOCIAL

MEDIA

Emmanuel ALAEKEZIE
1) In the digital age, we face the challenge of living as caring neighbors in the online world.
While technology has connected us in unprecedented ways, the key question is how to navigate
this digital landscape with genuine presence and attention. Social media, although providing
unique opportunities for interaction, also raises concerns about the impact of artificial
intelligence on human connection. The transformation of our relationship with digital platforms
is acknowledged, emphasizing the need to view them as co-created spaces. Both young and
older generations recognize the importance of meeting people where they are, especially in the
digital realm, which has become a significant part of our identity and way of life.

2) Christians seek inspiration in navigating the impact of social media on faith communities and
personal spiritual journeys. Despite challenges, many individuals and local communities
creatively express their faith on social platforms, often surpassing institutional church presence.
Various initiatives, spanning pastoral and educational realms, have emerged globally from
churches, movements, communities, universities, and individuals, reflecting diverse efforts to
engage with digital culture faithfully.

3)

The universal Church has been addressing the impact of the digital age since 1967, notably
through World Communications Day messages. These messages have evolved to consider
aspects of digital culture and social communication. Pope Benedict XVI emphasized the role of
media in fostering connections and encouraging a culture of respect, dialogue, and friendship.
The Church sees social media not just as tools but as spaces for the proclamation of the Good
News. Pope Francis acknowledges the profound integration of the digital world into everyday
life, transforming how knowledge is accumulated, information is shared, and relationships are
formed.

4)

During the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, the Church effectively used digital
media, demonstrating its powerful role in ministry. Pope Francis led a global prayer and
message in an empty Saint Peter's Square, reaching people worldwide through televised and
live-streamed transmission. Despite physical distance, the digital embrace of the Pope's
message brought unity and communion to millions in quarantine, highlighting the impactful
connection facilitated by traditional and digital communication.

5)

These pages result from reflections involving various experts, teachers, professionals, and
religious individuals. They aim to address key questions about how Christians should engage
with social media. Instead of strict guidelines, they encourage a shared reflection on our digital
experiences, urging both individuals and communities to approach it creatively and
constructively for a culture of neighborliness. The challenge is to build peaceful, meaningful,
and caring relationships online, prompting discussions in academic, professional, and ecclesial
circles. Questions include what kind of humanity our digital presence reflects, the depth of our
digital relationships, the expression of our faith in digital spaces, and who qualifies as our
"neighbor" on social media.

6)

In the Parable of the Good Samaritan, Jesus responds to a question about inheriting eternal life
posed by a legal expert. The question "Who is my neighbor?" arises. The idea of inheriting
relates to a deeper, lasting promise rather than just a geographic territory. The parable prompts
us to reconsider our role in the digital world, emphasizing the need to rediscover meaningful
connections and responsibilities within this evolving landscape.

7)

Social media is just one aspect of the broader digitization phenomenon, where tasks and
aspects of human life move to digital platforms. Digital technologies enhance efficiency, boost
the economy, and address challenges. The digital revolution, accelerated by the pandemic,
expands access to information and connections beyond physical limits. Activities like education
and work can now occur remotely. Countries adopt online sessions and voting, transforming
legal systems. The rapid spread of information is altering the dynamics of politics, showcasing
the extensive impact of digitization on various aspects of our lives.

8)

As Web 5.0 and communication advances emerge, the growing role of artificial intelligence will
significantly influence our perception of reality. Machines can now work, make decisions, learn,
and predict our behaviors. There are sensors that measure emotions and machines capable of
answering questions and learning from our interactions. The evolving reality raises numerous
unanswered questions about the impact and implications of advancing artificial intelligence
technologies.

9)

The Internet has brought significant changes to the world, creating new tensions. Some are
naturally accustomed to this digital culture, termed "digital natives," while others, the "digital
immigrants," are still adjusting. Our culture is now blended, not strictly separated into digital or
face-to-face interactions. The terms "online" and "offline" are being replaced by "onlife,"
recognizing that human and social life now encompasses both digital and physical spaces.
10)

In the world of integrated communication, where various communication processes converge,

social media significantly shapes our values, beliefs, language, and daily life assumptions. For
many, especially in developing countries, social media is the primary contact with digital
communication. It goes beyond being just a tool; it's an ecosystem driven by social sharing.
People seek a sense of belonging and affirmation on social media, turning it into a vital space
for communicating core values and beliefs. Despite awareness that social media companies
often prioritize profits over promises like bringing people together, creating and sharing ideas,
or giving everyone a voice, there's still a tendency to believe these assurances.

11)

A few decades ago, as people started using the Internet, there was a shared dream of it
becoming a happy space for common understanding, information sharing, and collaboration.
The hope was for the digital realm to be a "promised land" characterized by transparency, trust,
and expertise in the information shared.

12)

The initial expectations for the digital realm were not entirely fulfilled. Despite rapid
technological evolution, there is still a "digital divide." Many people lack access not only to basic
needs but also to information and communication technologies. This leaves a significant
number of marginalized individuals without these essential resources. Additionally, a "social
media divide" is emerging, as platforms intended to unite communities have instead deepened
various

13)

On the "digital highway," there are pitfalls that shed light on how the digital landscape has
evolved. Social media's commercial value is integral, marking a revolution when brands and
institutions recognized its strategic potential, turning users into consumers. Individuals, in this
context, act as both consumers and commodities. They receive personalized advertising but, as
commodities, their profiles and data are sold. People often accept complex "terms of
agreement" without reading or fully understanding them. The adage "If you're not paying for it,
you are the product" implies that, in using free platforms, individuals pay with their attention
and data.

14)

The emphasis on the exchange of knowledge, data, and information in society has created a
paradox. In an information-driven environment, verifying sources and the accuracy of digitally
circulated information becomes challenging. Artificial intelligence algorithms determine what
content to show based on various factors, including our past choices and preferences. The
digital environment experienced by each person is unique due to personalized algorithms.
Searching for information or receiving it through various platforms often involves unawareness
of the filters influencing results. This sophisticated personalization can result in exposure to
partial information, reinforcing existing beliefs and leading to isolation within "filter bubbles."

15)

Communities on social media often gather around shared interests, creating meeting points for
networked individuals. Algorithms categorize users based on characteristics, origins, tastes, and
preferences, bringing similar individuals together to keep them engaged online. However, this
tendency to group like-minded individuals can prevent users from truly encountering those
who are different, hindering meaningful connections with diverse perspectives.

16)

Automated systems on social media can inadvertently foster individualistic "spaces" and fuel
extreme behaviors. The rapid spread of aggressive and negative content creates a conducive
environment for violence, abuse, and misinformation. Social media interactions, often
influenced by pseudonymity, differ significantly from those in physical spaces, where verbal and
non-verbal feedback plays a crucial role in shaping our actions.

17)

Recognizing the pitfalls in social media allows us to understand and unveil the negative
influences in the digital environment. While it's crucial to appreciate the digital world as part of
our lives, a balanced and complementary approach to both digital and physical experiences is
essential for constructing a meaningful human life and journey.

18)

On the "digital highways," division and hatred often cause harm to many individuals. To
humanize digital environments, it's crucial not to overlook those who are marginalized or "left
behind." Adopting the perspective of the wounded man in the Parable of the Good Samaritan,
understanding the experiences of the digitally marginalized provides insight into the
complexities of our contemporary world. Ignoring these issues and remaining silent bystanders
is not an option; active engagement is necessary for positive change.

20)
There's a pressing need to use social media beyond our own circles, reaching out to those who
hold opposing views or seem different. Welcoming the "other" is challenging but crucial, as
seen in biblical stories like Cain's refusal to be his brother's keeper and the scribe's attempt to
limit who qualifies as a neighbor. Often, we seek justification for our indifference, drawing lines
between "us" and "them." This tendency hinders compassion, making us view others' suffering
as their responsibility, not our concern. The call is to break down these barriers and cultivate
empathy and understanding in our digital interactions.

19)

In an era marked by increasing division and the tendency for individuals to retreat into
personalized bubbles, social media can lead to indifference, polarization, and extremism. When
people view each other solely through the lens of differing perspectives, it reflects a "throw-
away culture" and normalization of isolation. The antidote lies not in isolating ourselves in our
own interests but in fostering a "culture of encounter." This approach cultivates friendship and
peace among diverse individuals, offering a hopeful alternative to the challenges posed by
globalization and increasing indifference.

21)

The Good Samaritan parable urges us to address the digital "throw-away culture" by
encouraging efforts to step out of our comfort zones and reach out to others voluntarily. This
requires emptying ourselves, recognizing our shared humanity with its wounds, and
remembering that compassion has been extended to us. The key is to actively engage with
others, acknowledging our interconnectedness and fostering a sense of compassion and
understanding in the digital realm.

22)The passage emphasizes the importance of taking proactive steps in caring for others,
rejecting a self-centered mindset, and promoting a shift from digital media as a passive
experience to a platform that fosters mutual engagement and community-building.

23)

To overcome indifference in the digital realm, we must take the initiative by acting as neighbors
and rejecting exclusionary logic. Believing in a "God who is not indifferent," we move beyond
the question of how much we have to care for others. Instead, we become active participants in
fostering community and mutual encounters. This shift transforms digital media from an
individual experience into a foundation for building connections and community.

24)
Rather than merely producing or reacting to content individually, the focus should shift to co-
creating healthier online experiences. Essential questions include how to facilitate
conversations, foster mutual listening, empower communities to bridge divisions, and promote
dialogue and respect on social media platforms. The goal is to restore the online environment
to its rightful place—a space for sharing, collaborating, and belonging—built on mutual trust.

15)

Reflecting on our engagement with social media involves understanding the inherent
challenges and opportunities within these networks. While online platforms may tempt
individualism and self-promotion, disciples who have experienced the merciful gaze of Christ
can transcend these tendencies. Effective communication, rooted in encounter, starts with
listening and recognizing the presence of others. Listening fosters genuine dialogue and
overcomes obstacles, including indifference. It is an essential step in engaging with others and a
fundamental ingredient for meaningful communication.

26)

The Good Samaritan parable illustrates an unexpected act of compassion. Despite historical
tensions between Jewish and Samaritan people, the Samaritan defied expectations and helped
a beaten man. Instead of viewing the victim as an "other," he saw someone in need and felt
compassion. Putting himself in the other's shoes, the Samaritan gave his time and resources,
demonstrating a selfless willingness to listen and accompany someone he encountered.

27)

The Good Samaritan parable inspires meaningful social media relationships by showcasing a
profound encounter between strangers. The Samaritan goes beyond social divides, reaching
across boundaries of agreement and disagreement. Unlike the priest and Levite who pass by,
the Samaritan sees the wounded man, feels compassion, and listens to his story. Compassion,
in this context, means recognizing the other person as a part of oneself. The Samaritan's actions
are driven by an inner prompting, illustrating the power of genuine connection.

28)

In the Gospel of Luke, there's no recorded dialogue between the Samaritan and the wounded
man. Despite the absence of words, the Samaritan's open and hospitable attitude initiates an
encounter. His first gesture, expressing care, is crucial. The Samaritan's ability to listen without
cultural prejudices prevents the wounded man from being left for dead, highlighting the
importance of genuine openness and receptivity to others' stories.

29)
The interaction in the Good Samaritan story encourages us to take the initiative in the digital
world. It invites us to recognize the value and dignity of those with whom we differ and to look
beyond our safety nets and bubbles. Becoming a neighbor in the social media environment
requires intentional effort, starting with the ability to listen attentively and allowing the reality
of others to touch us.

30)

Listening is a crucial skill for building relationships beyond information exchange. In today's
digital environment, our devices are filled with information, and social media platforms offer
endless scrolling through text, images, and sound. Despite the media-rich nature of digital
communication, our interactions remain limited. Quick reactions to information on screens
often occur without seeking the full context, highlighting the challenge of genuine listening in
the digital age.

31)

The abundance of information in the digital network offers numerous benefits, providing quick
and personalized access to a wide range of practical information, maintaining social
connections, and expanding knowledge. This ease of access has the potential to create inclusive
spaces that amplify the voices of those marginalized by social or economic injustice within our
communities.

32)

The constant availability of information has led to challenges such as information overload,
impacting our cognitive ability to process the vast amount of data. Similarly, we face social
interaction overload due to the high number of social solicitations from various websites and
platforms vying for our attention. The competition for attention has turned it into the most
valuable asset and commodity in the digital landscape.

33)

In the overwhelming digital environment, our attention is scattered as we navigate a vast

information and social interaction network. The constant desire for more content in endless
scrolling tempts us to post instantly, hindering our ability to think deeply and purposefully. The
"always on" condition and rapid topic-switching contribute to a loss of focus, preventing us
from delving deeply into issues and pondering realities.

34)
Mindfulness is crucial in the digital age. Without silence and deliberate thinking, we risk losing
cognitive capacities and the depth of our human and divine interactions. The scarcity of
intentional listening and discernment of truth is concerning. The process of attention-interest-
desire-action, akin to advertising tactics, mirrors how temptation enters our hearts, drawing
attention away from the meaningful and life-giving Word of God. This echoes the age-old
struggle depicted in Genesis, where the serpent tempts with seemingly appealing fruits. The
analogy of seeds along the path highlights how we may allow the evil one to snatch away the
sown word within us.

35)

Amid the overwhelming stimuli and data, silence becomes a precious commodity, providing
space for focus and discernment. The call to embrace silence in digital culture emphasizes the
significance of concentration and attentive listening. In various settings, including education,
work, families, and communities, there's a growing need to detach from digital devices. This
concept of "silence" can be likened to a "digital detox," not merely a withdrawal but a means to
engage more deeply with God and others.

36)

Listening, arising from silence, is fundamental for caring for others. It involves welcoming,
offering hospitality, and demonstrating respect. Listening is an act of humility, acknowledging
truth, wisdom, and value beyond our limited perspective. Without a disposition to listen, we
cannot fully receive the gift of another person.

37)

n the fast-paced digital culture that challenges our attention and focus, listening becomes
crucial in our spiritual lives. A contemplative approach, contrary to the norm, holds prophetic
potential, shaping not only individuals but culture as a whole. Prioritizing listening on social
media marks a foundational step toward building a network focused on genuine human
connection rather than bytes, avatars, and "likes." This shift encourages thoughtful dialogue,
asking questions to understand better, showing care and compassion, and acknowledging the
dignity of those we encounter.

38)

Digital culture has greatly expanded our access to others, providing an opportunity for
increased listening. However, true listening in the digital realm goes beyond data monitoring
and engagement statistics. Intentional listening requires an openness of the heart, an
attentiveness and hospitality that are fundamental for meaningful communication. This
approach, akin to contemplative prayer, extends beyond seeking authentic relationships to
fulfill a fundamental human need for connection, evident in the desire for connectedness in the
digital age.

39)

Inner dialogue and a relationship with God, facilitated by the gift of faith, are vital for enhancing
our listening skills. Engaging with the Word of God, particularly through practices like lectio
divina, offers a contemplative and formative experience. This prayerful approach to Scripture
allows for a slow, deliberate, and profound engagement with the Word.

40)

The "Word of the Day" or "Gospel of the Day" are widely searched by Christians online,
highlighting the digital realm's role in providing new possibilities for encountering the divine
Word regularly. When engaging with the living God's Word online, our perspective shifts from
merely reading on a screen to connecting with others sharing stories. Recognizing the people
behind the screen enables the exercise of listening, extending hospitality to others' stories, and
fostering relationships.

41)

From a faith perspective, determining what and how to communicate on social media is both a
practical and spiritual consideration. Being present on these platforms requires prudence and
thoughtful engagement with others. Reflecting on the scribe's question, "Who is my
neighbor?", prompts a deeper consideration of God's presence in and our relationships on
social media, urging us to approach these interactions with a sense of responsibility and
awareness.

42)

On social media, community is a multifaceted concept. It encompasses those with whom we

actively engage, maintaining visible connections. Simultaneously, our digital communities
extend to those we cannot see due to privacy settings or their absence. Digital interactions also
involve entities like "internet bots" and "deepfakes," programs with assigned tasks, often
mimicking human actions or manipulating data. Additionally, social media platforms are shaped
by external entities, typically corporations, influencing the platform's programming and
functionality. Altogether, these diverse elements contribute to the dynamic online
environment.

43)
Recognizing our digital neighbor involves acknowledging that every person's life matters, even
when their presence is mediated through digital means. While today's media allow us to
communicate and share knowledge, they can sometimes shield us from direct contact with the
joys and struggles of others. Being a good neighbor on social media entails being present to the
stories of others, particularly those facing challenges. Advocating for better digital
environments doesn't divert attention from real-world problems but, instead, promotes an
integral view of human life that includes the digital realm. Social media can serve as a tool to
draw attention to and build solidarity around concrete issues like hunger, poverty, migration,
war, disease, and loneliness.

44)

To assess our presence on social media meaningfully, we should conduct a conscientious

reflection on three essential relationships: with God, our neighbors, and the environment.
These connections with others and our surroundings ought to enrich our relationship with God,
emphasizing that our paramount relationship with God should manifest in how we interact with
others and the world.

45)

Communication begins with connection and progresses to relationships, community, and

communion. Genuine communication involves encountering truth, establishing relationships,
and forming communities that share fundamental truths and a sense of belonging. In this
context, unity through shared truth takes precedence over secondary factors like geographic or
cultural proximity.

46)

The text highlights the age-old challenge of building a community through communication,
exploring the tension between mediated presence and the desire for in-person connection. It
references examples from the letters of the Apostles, specifically citing John and Paul. The
Apostle John expresses a longing for face-to-face interaction over written communication, while
Paul, despite his physical absence, establishes and connects communities through his letters.
The text emphasizes that, for Paul, there was no dichotomy between physical presence and his
written words, emphasizing the enduring impact of his letters on community-building.

47)

The text emphasizes the need to move beyond an "either-or" perspective on human
relationships (digital vs. in-person) and embrace a "both-and" approach, acknowledging the
complementarity of digital and real-life interactions. It advocates for social media to strengthen
local communities, highlighting that online interactions should enhance, not replace, face-to-
face encounters. The digital world is seen as a rich environment if we recognize the humanity
behind the screens, reminding us that individuals online are not just numbers but people with
stories, dreams, expectations, and sufferings, each with a unique name and face.

48)

Digital media facilitates meaningful connections that transcend geographical and cultural
boundaries. While these encounters may lack physical proximity, they hold genuine
significance, impact, and reality. Beyond mere connections, digital interactions provide
opportunities for sincere engagement, meaningful conversations, expressions of solidarity, and
a means to alleviate someone's isolation and pain.

49)

Social media serves as a modern "road to Jericho," offering unplanned encounters akin to Jesus'
interactions with a blind beggar, a dishonest tax collector, and a wounded man. The parable of
the Good Samaritan emphasizes that religious affiliations or claims to follow Jesus don't
guarantee compassion or assistance, illustrated by the negative reactions faced by the blind
man and Zacchaeus in their interactions with Jesus and the indifference of the priest and Levite
to the wounded man.

50)

Mere proclamation of Christianity on social media isn't enough; numerous profiles may share
religious content but lack faithful relational dynamics. Hostility and offensive language,
especially when associated with Christian content, contradict the Gospel. Drawing a parallel to
the Good Samaritan, genuine compassion prompts action and care. To humanize social media,
the aspiration for a more relational space requires tangible actions and creative gestures.

51)

Building a sense of community in digital spaces involves recognizing shared values, experiences,
hopes, sorrows, joys, humor, and jokes as gathering points. True community goes beyond mere
social media definitions of "friendship" and requires personal commitment, emphasizing a
shared spirit of support and companionship. It entails a free and mutual sense of participation,
transcending mere connection or familiarity. The formation of community involves the active
work of healing and reconciliation, often serving as the initial step on this journey.

52)
In the digital realm, individuals face a choice: to emulate the Good Samaritan or be indifferent
bystanders. Reflecting on our lives and global history, everyone embodies aspects of the
wounded man, the robber, passers-by, and the Samaritan. Similarly, in the digital space,
individuals can either remain casual passersby or, like the Samaritan, transform connections
into genuine encounters. By caring for others, addressing wounds, both physical and societal,
becomes an endeavor to heal divisions and animosity between social groups.

53)

To "heal" wounds on social media means addressing divisions and fostering unity. Building
ecclesial environments capable of embracing today's cultural peripheries involves expressing
fraternity and embodying the spirit of the Good Samaritan. The opportunity lies in being a
community that actively includes, integrates, and uplifts those who have fallen, fostering a
tireless commitment to unity and understanding.

54)

Relationships beget relationships, and community builds community. The grace of established
relationships extends beyond interaction, emphasizing the human need for connection and
community. In the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, digital spaces became vital for those
seeking companionship, inclusion, and solidarity. However, some individuals find these spaces
lacking in providing non-judgmental and supportive dialogue.

55)

The dynamics of movement, encounter, relationship, and community in the digital realm
highlight both the positive and challenging aspects of digital culture. Online communities
sometimes form around shared interests or against a common external "other" or ideological
enemy, leading to polarization or tribalism. It's crucial to remember the presence of others
beyond tribal lines, treating them as brothers and sisters with dignity. The Church,
unfortunately, experiences conflicts among groups claiming to be Catholic, and instead of
exacerbating divisions, there's an opportunity for conversion, witness, encounter, dialogue, and
reconciliation.

56)

Engagement with social media should transcend mere opinion exchange, emphasizing social
action for effective transformation. Action-oriented initiatives on social media can have a more
significant impact than superficial debates. Similar to the Samaritan's approach, we are urged
to move beyond empathy, taking practical steps to address digital toxicity. Instead of limiting
discussions to character restrictions and emotional arguments, promoting actions that fertilize
positive change is essential. Emulating the Samaritan's care and commitment, we can extend
relationships and foster a sense of community by actively contributing to the common good
and promoting healing and reconciliation in the digital environment.

57)

Hospitality in online communities transcends shared interests; it involves acting as witnesses to

communion. These communities exhibit caring expressions in times of need, supporting
individuals facing illness, loss, or grief through initiatives like crowdfunding. Such efforts,
irrespective of faith inspiration, exemplify proximity, showcasing the power of diverse
individuals engaging in social action for the greater good. These communities play a crucial role
in overcoming isolation in the realm of social media.

58)

We have the power to shape the social web and bring about positive change. By advocating for
trust, transparency, equality, and inclusion, we can influence media and transform the internet
into a truly public space. Restructuring digital spaces is essential to create more humane and
healthier online environments.

59)

The Church, as a community on a pilgrimage to the Kingdom of Heaven, acknowledges the

significance of social media and digital reality in its journey. While online broadcasts of liturgical
celebrations provided comfort during lockdowns, there is an ongoing need for reflection within
faith communities on leveraging the digital environment to complement sacramental life. The
theological and pastoral considerations extend to issues like the commercial exploitation of the
retransmission of Holy Mass.

60)

The ecclesial community, formed by gathering in Jesus' name, extends beyond geographical
boundaries. The transmission of Mass into homes highlights the need to reconsider the
significance of "participation in the Eucharist." The digital culture and pandemic underscore the
importance of recognizing the "domestic Church," emphasizing the connection between liturgy
in churches and the celebration of the Lord within family homes. There is a call to rebuild the
bridge linking family tables and the altar, reinforcing spiritual nourishment through the Holy
Eucharist and confirming communion among believers.

61)
Sharing a meal, like participating in the Eucharist, engages all our senses and fosters
relationships. The sensory experience of the liturgy involves the whole person, entering the
Eucharistic mystery through awakened and fed senses. Unlike something merely observed, the
Eucharist is a nourishing experience that goes beyond passive watching.

62)

Embodiment is crucial for Christians as the Word became flesh, suffered, died, and rose again in
the Resurrection with His body. This embodiment is reflected in the sacraments, where the
experiences in Christ's body are conveyed, and through which heavenly grace is poured out
upon believers.

63)

Being connected beyond the boundaries of space is more than a technological achievement; it
is an experiential connection, particularly when gathering in the name of Jesus. This connection
transcends physical limitations and allows believers to participate in the universal communion
of the body of Christ. Pope Francis emphasizes that while the social web complements this, it
does not substitute the importance of encountering others in the flesh, where true communion
comes alive through personal interactions. The Church, similarly, is woven together in
Eucharistic communion, emphasizing unity in truth rather than mere digital "Likes."

64)

On social media, reflecting God's "style" goes beyond mere strategies and styles. It involves
giving oneself entirely in communication, engaging not only the mind but the soul, body, heart,
and hands. Drawing inspiration from Jesus, the distinctive characteristics of God's style are
closeness, compassion, and tenderness. Reflecting God's style on social media means
embodying these attitudes, particularly by loving one another as Jesus loved, thereby making
the Christian community recognizable in its digital interactions.

65)

On social media, our expressions, whether in posts, comments, or likes, should reflect the style
learned from Christ. This involves aligning our communication with the self-giving love
exemplified by Jesus in both his words and his way of life. The quality of our communication is
inseparable from the love we embody. In essence, effective communication on social media is
not just about the content but equally about the manner in which it is shared, emphasizing the
importance of communicating with love.

66)
To effectively communicate truth, we must ensure the accuracy and reliability of the
information we share, becoming a trusted source. Communicating goodness involves
promoting positive actions and avoiding unproductive debates. Communicating beauty requires
presenting a message in its entirety, employing the art of contemplation to appreciate its
connection to various aspects of reality. In the era of "post-truth" and "fake news," Jesus Christ,
described as "the way, the truth, and the life," serves as the guiding principle for fostering
communion with God and each other. Guarding the truth is essential for maintaining the
mutual relationship of communion, while lies hinder this communion by selfishly refusing to
recognize our interconnectedness and denying the path to self-discovery.

67)

Effective communication gains influence when it is rooted in community. While social media
enables individual initiatives, the Church community faces challenges when individual actions
diverge from the overall goals. It emphasizes setting aside personal agendas to collaborate,
leveraging diverse talents and weaknesses to showcase a collective witness. Saint Paul's
analogy of the "joints" emphasizes fostering belonging and synergy among community
members, reinforcing the importance of a unified communication style.

68)

As Christian communicators, our creativity should stem from communion rather than individual
genius. Witnessing a style of communication grounded in community-building and belonging is
essential. Collaborative efforts, incorporating diverse voices, talents, and backgrounds, result in
a "symphonic creativity" that reflects our identity as children of God. This approach shifts the
focus from self-concern to an open encounter with others, providing a powerful witness to our
shared journey.

69)

In digital culture, storytelling holds unique power to captivate attention, extend hospitality to
truth, and build community. Stories provide an interpretive framework, answering deep
questions and offering a structured context amid chaotic digital platforms. Unlike superficial
reactions, stories are "enfleshed" and complex, contributing to restoring human relationships
by allowing people to share transformative narratives. They play a crucial role in making sense
of the overwhelming information present in the digital landscape.

70)

Telling stories serves as a powerful response to questions or challenges, offering a counter-

narrative that promotes positivity and solidarity. This approach, illustrated by Jesus in the story
of the Good Samaritan, shifts focus from defensive arguments to active engagement. By
embodying characters in the narrative, individuals can empathize with others' experiences,
fostering understanding and connection. The ultimate lesson is that recognizing love and
interconnectedness is essential to understanding and embracing the concept of neighbor.

71)

The early Church's practice of telling stories about the transformative experiences with Jesus
played a vital role in attracting people to Christian discipleship. Examples from the Acts of the
Apostles, like Peter's empowered preaching on Pentecost, illustrate the profound impact
storytelling can have on others, leading to conversions. While storytelling is a crucial aspect of
evangelization, it is complemented by systematic explanations of the faith through creeds and
doctrinal works. Both elements contribute to the comprehensive communication of Christian
beliefs.

72)

In the quest for guidance and inspiration, people often seek moral and spiritual leadership,
increasingly turning to "influencers" on social media. Influencers, distinguished by their ability
to garner a substantial following and offer compelling ideas or experiences, play a significant
role in providing direction and hope in the digital age. The success of a social media influencer is
associated with their capacity to stand out in the vast online network and attract a large
number of followers.

73)

The act of going "viral" on social media is neutral, lacking inherent positive or negative impacts.
Social networks can either foster relationships and societal well-being or contribute to
polarization and division. The digital realm serves as a public square, offering opportunities for
constructive dialogue or the potential for unfair attacks, depending on how individuals choose
to engage.

74)

Every Christian, regardless of follower count, is a micro-influencer with the potential to connect
others to the Kingdom of God. The value of the message is not tied to the messenger's qualities.
Responsibility grows with the number of followers, emphasizing the need for awareness that
one is acting in service to the community, not just promoting personal opinions. This is crucial,
particularly for those in leadership roles, as their responsibility to minister to the community
should not be overshadowed by expressing personal views on digital platforms.

75)
The Christian approach on social media should be reflective, avoiding reactive responses to
intentionally divisive content. Care must be taken not to contribute to misunderstanding,
division, conflict, or prejudice through posts or shares. Online discussions often lean towards
disrespect, and the temptation to publicly accuse or stir up divisions is common. This issue is
particularly concerning when it involves Church leaders, as it not only divides the community
but also encourages similar communication from others. In the face of such temptations,
silence or non-reactivity is often the most constructive response, as engaging in this dynamic
only causes harm and goes against the Christian call to show a different way.

76)

Social media presents an opportunity to share distant stories, fostering prayer and unity. Being
active involves engaging in projects promoting human dignity, reducing digital inequality,
ensuring access to information, supporting marginalized communities, and amplifying the
voices of the voiceless. Global challenges necessitate collaborative efforts, emphasizing acting
as a community, not just individual influencers. Reflecting the synodal face of the Church,
Christians are called to weave communion, showcasing universal fraternity through the Holy
Spirit's guidance and an open-hearted embrace of others.

77)

On social media, Christians should not only share religious content but also be known for
listening, discerning, treating others with respect, responding with questions, avoiding
judgment, and embodying qualities like being "quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger"
(James 1:19). The focus should be on giving witness to life in Christ rather than engaging in
proselytization or treating the online presence as a platform to sell a product.

78)

Being a witness, or martyr, involves manifesting union with God through sacrificial living.
Martyrs, exemplary Christian influencers, reveal love through the sacrifice of their lives. While
martyrdom is the ultimate Christian witness, all Christians are called to sacrifice, offering
themselves as spaces for God's love communication. John the Baptist's words, "He must
increase; I must decrease," exemplify the idea of diminishing oneself for Christ, emphasizing the
pursuit of followers for Christ, not personal acclaim. Following Jesus' example, Christians aim to
spread the Gospel through communion in Christ.

79)

The attractiveness of faith is rooted in meeting people where they are. Jesus, despite gaining
popularity, prioritized personal connection with the Father over increasing his audience. His
retreats into solitude revealed the essence of love, not measured by worldly success. Like Jesus,
Christians should allocate space for personal communion with the Father and stay attuned to
the Holy Spirit, recognizing that the Cross redefines success in the light of the Gospel,
transcending human metrics.

80

Our witness involves vouching for what Christ has done, shining with the joy He gives. This joy,
rooted in gratitude, prompts us to share our hope gently and respectfully. Mary exemplifies the
influential power of humility. Following the Gospel's logic, our role is to provoke questions,
allowing God's hidden work to unfold.

81

In navigating the digital journey, we encounter strangers and pitfalls, sometimes realizing we or
others are wounded. This awareness transforms characters on screens into neighbors, echoing
Christ's call. Whether wounded or tending to wounds, each encounter becomes an opportunity
for mercy, offering a taste of the Kingdom of God rooted in the Holy Trinity.

82

Our authentic presence in the digital realm can serve as a pathway for the face-to-face
encounter that Saint John and Saint Paul envisioned—an encounter between every wounded
person and the Lord's Body, the church. In these personal, heart-to-heart encounters, both our
wounds and theirs may find healing, leading to complete joy.