Priests encouraged to use web for sharing Christ

Church must use the 'web' to reach out to more people, says head of Vatican's communication office, Archbishop Claudio Maria Celli.

"Priests need to be attentive to the fact that there are many young people present on the web and they need to think of how they can reach to these young people," said the prelate while addressing a seminar of diocesan communication officials in Delhi.

The three-day seminar was organised by the Catholic Bishops' Conference of India (CBCI) from Feb. 13.

"The web is to be understood not just as a place to pass time; we have reasons for being there. This requires that we keep a ministerial focus on our presence. The priest should be present precisely as a priest," said Archbishop Celli who is the President of Pontifical Council for Social Communication.

"The priest is on the web above all as somebody who will bring the Gospel," he noted. "The web is a place for enthusiasts. On the web we find enthusiasts and people who are enthusiastic about various projects, ideas, hobbies and aspects of human experience; who are sharing, discussing and learning about their interests."

Therefore, we need to have an engagement and openness to others. The message of Christ, which is the only message that offers fundamental hope to human beings, must be brought to others, Archbishop Celli declared.

He also noted that web can be a place for priests to develop the understanding of Gospel with others.

"Many of the activities of the priest in preaching, writing and reflection can be shared with a wider audience at no greater effort," he said.

He adds: Working with others, this pastoral output can be adapted and developed in ways that mean a good sermon, letter, message, or a great celebration can be brought to a wider audience."