Murialdo Formation House, Ibadan.

SUMMARY OF Towards Full Presence (A Pastoral Reflection on Engagement with social media)

BY
IGWE IKENNA STEPHEN

TO

Father Jacob

IBADAN

December 2023
1. The main point is that in the digital age we need to figure out how to engage with technology in
a way that enhance real human connections. Social media is a big part of people’s lives,
especially for young ones, and its important to actively participate and create meaningful
experiences online.
2. Many Christians are seeking inspiration and guidance in the digital age, influenced greatly by
social media. People worldwide, including local communities, individuals, churches, and
educational institutions, actively share their faith online. These entities develop a variety of
initiatives not only for but also for teaching about faith in the context of the digital age.
3. The Universal Church has been dealing with the impact of digital technology since 1967. World
communication Day messages, starting in the 1990s, discussed computer use and from the early
2000s, focused on digital culture. In 2009, Pope Benedict xvi emphasized that media should not
just connect people but encourage relationships based on respect and dialogue. The Church sees
social medial as more than tools, urging the proclamation of good news in digital spaces. Pope
Francis recognizes the digital world as an integral to daily life, changing how we learn, share
information, and build relationships.
4. The Church effectively uses social media, as shown during the early days of the COVID-19
pandemic in 2020. St. Peter’s square, empty due to lockdowns, became a powerful scene of
unity through televised and live streamed events. The pope’s prayer, broadcasted via traditional
and digital media, reached people globally, creating a sense of togetherness during challenging
time. Despite physical distance, the virtual gathering allowed millions to feel connected and
experience a moment of unity and communion.
5. This document explores how Christian should approach social media through reflections
involving various individuals, including experts, teachers, and leaders. It doesn’t provide strict
guidelines but encourages a shared reflections on digital experiences. The focus is on fostering
positive relationships and questioning the authenticity of communication on social media. It
prompts readers to consider how their digital presence reflects humanity, the depth of
communication, the influence of opinions, the expression of faith, and the concept of neighbours
in the online world
6. The parable of the good Samaritan, prompted by a question on eternal life, emphasizes
inheriting something lasting beyond physical land. It encourages us to rethink our role in the
digital world with timeless principles of being a good a neighbour.

Watching out for pitfalls on the digital highways

A promised land to rediscover?
7. Digitization, a broader concept than social media, involves shifting many aspects of human life
to digital platforms. Digital technologies promote efficiency, boos the economy and solve
complex problems. The digital revolution, accelerated by the pandemic, expands access to
information and connection beyond physical limits. Activities like education and work can now
be done remotely. Countries adapt legal systems with online sections and voting. The fast spread
of information is transforming political operation
8. The rise of web 5.0 and communication advances is shaping our reality. Machines are
developing to work, make decisions and predict behaviours. Emotions are measured by skin
sensors, learn, and mimic voices and expressions. Within this ever-changing environment, many
questions remain about the consequences of these technological developments.
9. The internet has brought significant changes, creating a divide between digital natives and
immigrants. Our culture is now digital, blending online and offline experiences into a unified
‘’on life’’ concepts that includes human interactions in both digital and physical realms.
10. Social media is a powerful force shaping our values and beliefs in today’s interconnected
communication world. Especially in developing countries, many people only experience digital
communication through social media. It’s not just a tool; its an ecosystem driven by social
sharing, providing a crucial space for expressing our core values. Despite knowing that social
media companies often prioritize profits over promises like bringing people together. We still
tend to trust their stated ideals.
11. Decades ago, as people embraced the internet, they envisioned it as a joyful space for shared
understanding, free information, and collaboration, a promised land of transparent, trustworthy,
and expert knowledge.

Pitfalls to avoid
12. The initial hopes for the internet creating a harmonious global space were not fully realized. The
digital divide persists, with many lacking accesses not only to necessities but also to information
technologies. Additionally, social media, meant to unite, has often intensified divisions rather
than fostering community.
13. Social media has potential issues, especially concerning its commercial aspect. Brands and
institutions, recognizing strategic potential, transformed users into consumers and commodities.
As consumers, individuals encounter tailored advertising and sponsored content, while as
commodities, their profiles and data are sold. Accepting terms of agreement, often unread,
implies the adage: if it’s free, we’re paying with our attention and data.
14. In a world where information matters a lot, it’s tough to check if what we see online is accurate.
Artificial intelligence decides what we see based on our past choices and even distractions. Each
person’s online experience is unique, shaped by personalized algorithms. But this
personalization often means we only see information that agrees with our ideas, making us
isolated in our own digital bubbles.
15. Social media groups people with similar interest together using algorithms, making users
interact mostly with like-minded individuals. This can limit exposure to different perspectives
16. Technology systems can make online spaces isolating, making extreme behaviours worse.
Negative speech spreads fast on social media, leading to violence, abuse, and false info. Using
fake names online add anonymity, causing different reactions compared to in-person
interactions with immediate feedback.
17. Knowing about these problems help us understand and expose the negative patterns in social
media. Finding solutions to digital world as part of our lives, but our overall life is shaped by
both online and offline experiences working together.
18. Online, division and hatred affect many people. We can’t ignore it; we must not stay silent. To
make digital spaces more humane, we need to remember those who are left out. By looking at
things from their perspective, like the wounded man in a story (parable of the good Samaritan),
we learn more about the challenges in our complex world.

Weaving relationship
19. Social media can make us more divided, each person staying in their own bubble. This can lead
to indifference, extreme views, and polarization. When people see others only as a different
opinion, it adds to a culture of ignoring each other. To bring hope, we need to connect and be
friends with people who have different views, a culture of meeting and making peace.
20. We urgently need to use social media to connect with people outside our groups and welcome
those with different views. Its not easy, as seen in stories like cain in the Bible who refused to
 care for his brother. Sometimes, we try to justify ignoring others, setting limit on who we
consider neighbours. This makes grow indifferent and less passionate to others’ suffering
21. The good Samaritan story teaches us to deal with the online world by being kind and reaching out to
others. We should step out of our comfort zone and make an effort to connect with people. It works
when we see ourselves as part of a hurting world and remember when someone was compassionate to
us.
22. We should be the ones to start caring and not be indifferent, just like we believe in a caring God. Instead
of asking how much we have to care, we should act like neighbours, rejecting exclusion and building a
sense of community. We need to shift from seeing digital media as a personal experience to using it to
connect with others and build a community.
23. How can we make online spaces better by encouraging respectful conversations, empowering
communities to build connection, and fostering trust and collaboration.
24. To bring positive change online, engage with others meaningfully, challenge yourself in
interactions, and prioritize real relationships over superficial connections. While digital
interactions are valuable, nurturing your relationship with God and requires prayer and
participation in the sacramental life of the Church, which go beyond the digital realm.

From the Awareness of True Encounter

25. When using social media, we should be aware of its challenges and opportunities. Although it
can encourage self-centred behaviour, we can choose not to follow that path. Those who have
experienced Christ’s mercy understand the importance of listening and recognizing others. This
approach fosters connection, breaks down barriers, and combats indifference. Listening is a
crucial first step for meaningful communication and genuine dialogue.
26. In the good Samaritan story, a man helps someone unexpected despite their differences. Even
though people expected hostility between them, the Samaritan showed kindness and saw the
person in need as someone deserving help. This teaches us about compassion, empathy, and the
importance of helping others without letting differences get in the way
27. The parable shows how strangers can connect meaningfully on social media, breaking down
divides. Unlike the priest and Levites who ignore the wounded man, the Samaritan cares,
listens, and feels compassion, emphasising the idea that others are a part of ourselves.
28. In the Gospel of Luke, the Samaritan doesn’t speak to the wounded man, but his caring attitude
and open hospitality creates a meaningful encounter. The Samaritan’s first gesture, showing care
without judgement, prevents the wounded man from being ignored or left for dead.
29. The men’s interaction encourages us to take the initiative online. We should appreciate and
respect those with differing opinions, step out of our comfort zones, and actively listen to others
on social media to connect better.
30. Listening is crucial for meaningful relationships beyond just sharing information. In the digital
world, our devices overflow with data, but social media often limits our understanding. We
scroll through content rapidly, reacting without getting the complete picture or context
31. Having lots of information is good; it helps us quickly access personalized content, stay
connected, and learn more. Easy acess can make online spaces more inclusive, giving a more
voice to those often overlooked due to social or economic challenges.
32. Having too much information and social interactions online can be overwhelming. It’s like our
brains get tired from dealing with too many details. Websites and apps compete for our
attention, making attention a precious commodity in the digital world
33. In our technological world, we struggle to concentrate on one thing at a time. constant exposure
to information and social media makes us easily distracted, leading to a lack of deep thinking.
 Our constant need for digital stimulation makes it hard to focus, and we often stay on the
surface instead of reflecting deeply on important matters.
34. In our fast-growing world, we need to be mindful and make space for deep thinking. The
constant distractions and temptations can take us away from meaningful interactions and the
truth. Its crucial to focus on what truly matters, like the word of God, instead of getting drown
into superficial desires.
35. In a world filled with constant information. Silence is valuable for concentration and clear
thinking. Embracing quiets moments, like a digital detox, helps us connect better with God and
the people around us in school, work family, and community. Its important to take breaks from
digital devices for a deeper engagement with life.
36. Listening is like creating a welcoming space for others, showing respect and humility. Its an art
that leads us appreciate the wisdom and value beyond our own perspective, allowing us to
receive the gifts others share.
37. In the busy digital world, its crucial to listen for spiritual well-being. Taking time to truly listen,
especially on social media, can positively impact both individuals and culture. Instead of quick
reactions, we aim for meaningful conversations, asking questions, showing care, and respecting
others’ dignity.
38. Digital culture has made it easier to connect with others. But true listening in socials media goes
beyond analysing data. It involves listening with an open heart, being fully present, and seeking
genuine connections, similar to the desire for authentic relationships in everyday life.
39. Talking with God and having faith helps us to become better listeners. Reading and reflecting on
the Bible, especially through practices like Lectio Divina, is important for personal growth and a
thoughtful experience.
40. Engaging with the daily gospel online allows Christians to connect with the Living Word of
God. Viewing it as a personal story shared by someone behind the screen emphasizes the
importance of listening and building relationship in digital domain.
41. Sharing on social media from a faith perspective involves practical and spiritual considerations.
Its crucial to be discerning and pray about how we interact. The question, ‘’who is my
neighbour?’’ reminds us to recognize God’s presence in our online relationships, emphasizing
thoughtful engagement and prudence.
42. Social media neighbour are the people we connect with online, but they can be hidden due to
platform restriction or non-existent. Our online neighbourhood includes not only real
connections but also bot and deepfakes. Social media platforms, run by for profit organizations,
shape our digital environment and control how the platforms functions.
43. Understanding our digital neighbours means valuing every life, even when technology mediates
our interactions. Pope Francis suggests using social media for connection, but its vital to remain
aware of real-world issues like hunger and poverty. Promoting a better digital environment
should highlight human experiences globally, fostering solidarity without focusing on individual
recognition.
44. Social media is not just for connection; its about building relationships with God, others and the
environment. Reflecting on our presence should involve nurturing these crucial connections.
Our relationship with God is paramount, and it should reflect in how we treat others and our
surrounding.
45. Communication starts with connection, forming relationships, and building community through
shared truths. True community goes beyond physical or cultural closeness; its about belonging,
reciprocity, and solidarity rooted I n the fundamental truth. In this, to adhere to truth takes
control over maintaining social ties across time and space.
46. Building community, even from a distance, has always been a challenge. The Apostles like John
and Paul, recognized a tension between written communication and the desire for face to face
communication. Despite using letters they valued face to face letter for complete joy. Paul’s
legacy shows that both physical and written presence are vital for community unity.
47. Our technological world, it is crucial to see beyond one or the other perspective about online
and offline relationships. Social media should compliment not replace real life connections. And
we should remember that behind every screen are people with stories and emotions, making the
online world a network of individuals, not just data.
48. Digital media allows meaningful connection across distances and culture. While not physically
close, these encounters can still be impact, real, and provide opportunities for sincere
engagement, meaningful conversations, solidarity, and removing isolation and pain.
49. Social media, like the road to Jericho, brings unexpected encounters. Similar to Jesus’ parables,
it shows that religious identities do not guarantee help, as seen with the blind man, Zacchaeus,
and the ignored wounded man
50. In our digital world, just claiming to be Christian is not sufficient. Many online profiles share
religious content but lack genuine faith in their interaction. Instead of spreading negativity, we
should imitate the good samaratitan by showing compassion and actively caring for others
social media, making it a more considerate and actively caring for others on social media,
making it a more gentle and friendship zone.
51. The article says making an community means understanding and caring about what people
share. It needs personal effort, listening, and connecting with others. Real community is more
than just being online friends; it involves active participation, support, and closeness. Building it
may need healing and fixing things along the way.
52. The article is saying on social media, we can either be helpful like a good person or ignore
things like a bystander. It compares our online behaviour to characters in a story. We all have the
potential to be caring like the good Samaritan, and by doing so, we can heal not just individual
problems but also bigger issues between groups of people.
53. The article is saying on social media, we can make things better by being kind and
understanding. Healing wounds means trying to bring people together instead of making
problems worse. It suggests that being like a good Samaritan, helping and caring; we can create
a more friendly online place. The focus is on building a community where everyone feels
included and supported.
54. The article is saying that people need relationships and communities, especially during the
tough times like the Covid 19 pandemic. Many turn into online spaces for connection, but some
feel its not supportive enough. The main idea is that we should work on making online spaces
more welcoming and understanding for everyone seeking support and dialogue.
55. Online groups can form around common interests or enemies, causing conflicts. It reminds us to
see the worth in everyone, even if they are different. Instead of fighting online, the article
suggest we use these situations as opportunities to understand each other and work together. The
main idea is to promote unity and positive connections online.
56. The article is telling us that on social media, its not just about talking, but doing good things.
Actions like helping others and creating a sense of community are more important than just
discussing ideas. It uses the story of the Samaritan to show that we should go beyond feeling
sorry and actually do things to make the digital world better. The main idea is to promote
positive actions that make social media welcoming and supportive
57. Being welcoming online, like showing hospitality, is important. It mentions that digital
communities should not only share content and interest but also work together and support each
other. Examples of online communities helping during tough times are given. The main idea is
 that online groups, regardless of differences, can come together to do good things for others,
reducing isolation on social media.

58. The article says we can make the internet better by promoting trust and fairness. It suggest that
by working together, we can encourage companies to play a positive role and make the internet
a heathier place for everyone. The main point is that we have the power to improve digital
media

59. The church acknowledges the importance of social media, in tis journey. During the lockdowns,
online liturgical broadcasts brought comfort to those unable to attend in person. However,
there’s a need to consider how to use the social media effectively while preserving the sacred
nature of the sacraments. Questions arise about potential commercial misuse, such as
retransmitting Holy Mass.

60. The article says we need to understand the meaning of participating in the Eucharist, especially
at home, it suggests connecting church rituals with family celebrations, rebuilding the link
between our family tables and the Altar where we spiritually connect through the Holy
Eucharist.

61. The articles make us to understand that eating together at a table involves all our senses, teaches
us to pay attention. It compares this to the Eucharist, saying it is not just watching but a
meaningful experience that nourishes the entire person.

62. The article makes to understand the important of embodiment in Christianity. It noted that God
took on a physical form, experiencing suffering, death, and resurrection in a body. After
ascending into heaven, these experiences are connected to sacraments. Serving as a way for
heavenly blessing to be shared with believers.

63. The text says that real connection happens when people gather in the name of Jesus, not just
online. Pope Francis says the internet is okay, but it id not a substitute of meeting physically.
Families using the internet to plan and then come together at a table is good. Similarly, a church
using it to coordinate and then celebrating together is also good. The church is like a network,
connected through Eucharistic communion not just online likes.

64. Effective communication on social media for Christian content creators involves on social
media goes beyond strategies and tools. It emphasizes giving ones’ whole life, communicating
with heart, soul, and action. Reflecting on Gods style involves closeness, compassion, and
tenderness, affirming Jesus commands to love one and other.

65. The main point here is that our communication, whether through words, posts, or actions,
should reflect the love and style of Christ. It makes us understand that how we express ourselves
is as important as the content of our message, stating the importance of love in effective
communication.

66. When we communicate, we should be truthful, helpful and positive. The perfect of example is
Jesus who is the only truth. The idea is that truthful communications builds connection, while
lies harm our sense of belonging.
67. Messages are more persuasive when shared by community member. Stressing the important of
acing collectively, especially on social media, and encourages setting aside personal goals to
work together as a connected group. The focus is on communication that promotes our sense of
belonging.

68. Creativity is best achieved through collaboration and community, not relying solely on
individuals’ genius. So there is an importance to work together, embracing diverse talent, and
promoting a sense of belonging in communication with one another.

69. The article is saying that stories are important because they grab our attention, help us to
understand the world, and bring people together, especially in the chaos of digital culture.

70. The article makes us to understand that telling a story, like Jesus did with the parable of the
good Samaritan can be effective than arguing when faced with criticism. By sharing a narrative,
one can shift the focus from defence to promoting a positive message, promoting solidarity, and
helping others understand the importance of compassion and connection to our lives.

71. In this article the point here is that sharing personal experiences and stories, like the early
followers did with Jesus, is a powerful way to attract others to Christian discipleship. While
storytelling is important, systematic explanation of the faith through creeds and doctrinal works
also play an important role in the evangelization.

72. In today’s world people seek moral and spiritual guidance from influencers on social media, as
traditional sources may not always provide it. Success for these influencers is tied to their ability
to stand out and attract a large follower by inspiring and motivating others with their ideas and
experiences.

73. Social network can be good or bad. They can bring people together or cause problems. Online
discussion should be positive and fair.

74. Every person, especially Christians, has influence on social media, big or small. The message
matters more than the messengers’ quality. Being responsible is important, especially with more
followers. Public figures should make use of serving their community over personal opinions
online.

75. The main idea is that Christian should be careful on social medial, avoiding content that causes
conflict, division, and misunderstanding. It is better to calm, not reacting impulsively, and
promoting a positive and peaceful approach online.

76. On social media, Christian should share stories, support project promoting human dignity,
reduce digital inequality, and collaborate globally. It encourages acting together as a community,
emphasizing unity over individual influence, reflecting the essence of Christian communion and
a universal fraternity.

77. The idea here is that Christian on social media should not just share information but also be
good listeners, treat others with respect, and prioritize living out their faith rather than trying to
convert others. Its about embodying Christian online interactions
78. Being a witness means showing Gods love through sacrificial living. It is not about gaining
followers for ourselves but pointing others to Christ by following his examples of love and
communion.

79. Faith, like Jesus showed, is about connecting with people where they are. Jesus focus more on
spending time with God, not just popularity. The focus is on revealing God’s love, not just
gaining followers. Christian should follow Jesus by spending personal time with God
remembering the deeper meaning of the cross.

80. Our role as witnesses, including on social media, is to share the joy and hope given by Christ.
This is done with gratitude, humility, and gentleness, arising curiosity in others and allowing
God to work in hidden ways.

81. The key point is that our online interactions, if approach with compassion, can turn into
meaningful connections where we help and support each other. This reflects God’s mercy and
brings a sense of unity and connection, resembling the promised kingdom of God.

82. By being caring and genuine online, we can help people connect personally with the church and
experience healing for their wounds, leading to complete joy.