Use of communications with Christian values
My dear brothers, sisters, and friends in Carmel,
Warm and loving greetings to all!
Pope Francis, in his message for the 2019 World Day of Social Communications, “We are members of one another” (Eph. 4:25). From Social Network Communities to the Human Community, emphasizes that the internet should be used to liberate, not to entangle. The internet and social media, he observes, “is an opportunity to promote encounter with others, but it can also increase our self-isolation, like a web that entraps us.”
In this same message, released on the feast of St. Francis of Sales, patron of journalists, the Holy Father states that social networks “help us to better connect, rediscover, and assist one another”, but on the other hand, “lend themselves to the manipulation of personal data, aimed at obtaining political or economic advantages, without due respect for the person and his or her rights.” The Pope concludes that by acting responsibly to promote the positive use of these online platforms, we can “move from diagnosis to treatment: opening the way for dialogue, for encounter, for ‘smiles’ and expressions of tenderness… This is the network we want, a network created not to entrap, but to liberate, to protect a communion of people who are free.”
We, as Carmelites, are undeniably part of this global and historical development in communications. There is no denying that we are greatly influenced, affected, assisted, and sometimes, even addicted to or controlled by social media and other online platforms of information exchange. However, the way these tools affect us is greatly influenced by our own intentions and mindset. Our generous God has given humankind the intelligence and skills to develop and utilize these technologies. Now that they are part of our daily lives, do we choose to use these powerful platforms with Christian values or with hateful malice? To build or to destroy? To empower or to abuse?
There are many positive experiences that can be lived through social media and virtual communities. They can be used to strengthen a sense of belongingness, to share who we are, to promote various advocacies. We now see the surge of working from home, as well as online meetings, conferences, and webinars that have become the “new normal” in a time of pandemic. However, we have also experienced—both on a personal and community level—the adverse effects of social media usage and the terrible damage it can cause to people when used irresponsibly. And in the process, not only do we hurt others, we also demean ourselves. Thus, I implore everyone to be constantly mindful and aware of one’s online presence and practices at all times, and to use these facilities in fostering understanding and unity instead of spreading division and spite.
We, Carmelites, are one with the Holy Father in hoping that the use of any online platform will be for the good of both our families and communities. We echo Pope Francis’ vision of using the internet and social media as venues for dialogue and networks that liberate. We share his optimism of enjoying everyone’s “smiles” and tenderness.
It is in this spirit that we are vigorously in the process of updating and improving the official website of the Carmelite Province of Blessed Titus Brandsma of the Philippines, as well as re-introducing our Carmel News Online, along with other digital innovations.
“This pandemic may have wrought havoc to our daily lives, yet it has also forced us to reflect and ponder on the significance of the unceasing race for progress and development in the world.”
It is my hope that with the new and revitalized Carmel News Online, we will be able to reach out more effectively to all members of our Carmelite family, anywhere in the world. This digital publication aims to share relevant information and updates, foster positive engagement among our confreres and associates, co-workers, and lay collaborators, and encourage pro-active sharing of news and insights by Carmelites whether as individuals or as communities. In this platform, we hope to upgrade and enhance the way we communicate with one another. With this open space, we pray that everyone would be free and not be entrapped!
Let me also take this opportunity to share with everyone some of the projects undertaken by the Philippine Province as it supports the concerted efforts of the Church to help the needy as we continue to face the challenges of the COVID 19 pandemic.
Since the onset of the pandemic, our parishes, communities, and institutions have been consistent in their various campaigns to minister to both the spiritual and material needs of those under their care. We have been strongly encouraging our friends and benefactors, especially those who are members of the Carmelite family both here and abroad, to manifest their compassion to our brothers and sisters who are struggling to survive during these difficult times. For this purpose, the Province launched the “CarmelCare” and “Handog Karmelo” charity campaignswhich have since been generating the much-needed financial assistance to support our different mission areas, especially those badly affected by the pandemic. The Province thanks each and every one who generously responded to our appeals for help. We pray for your continued health and well-being. God will repay you.
This pandemic may have wrought havoc to our daily lives, yet it has also forced us to reflect and ponder on the significance of the unceasing race for progress and development in the world. At a time when “busyness” and dominion over others have become almost like a status symbol, may this experience lead us to realize that we are truly nothing without God. Let us learn how to embrace the silence and reflect on how inconsequential we are in the grander scheme of things. Let us not allow ourselves to be paralyzed by the fear and insecurities brought by this challenging situation. Instead, let us be vigilant in protecting ourselves by taking precautionary measures and following health protocols. But more importantly, let us be strengthened by our faith in a loving and merciful God, and with the belief that our Lady of Mount Carmel will embrace us in her mantle of protection and love.
Yours in Carmel,
FR. RICO PALACA PONCE, O.CARM.
Prior Provincial
24th June 2020
Quezon City, Philippines