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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Bishop warns church workers vs social media 'obsession'

Bishop warns church workers vs social media 'obsession'

Published Dec 3, 2023 04:12 am

Cebu Auxiliary Bishop Midyphil Billones has warned the church's media ministry workers against being "obsessed" with the number of followers they have on social media.

Cebu Auxiliary Bishop Midyphil Billones.jpg
Cebu Auxiliary Bishop Midyphil Billones / Photo credit to Jay Mangussad 

Speaking at the 12th Catholic Social Media Summit (CSMS) on Saturday, Dec. 2, the Catholic bishop acknowledged the potential of social media for "evangelization and transformation."

"We admit its limitations and vulnerabilities, but we cannot deny its potential and possibilities," he said.

However, he pointed out that digital platforms can also be "bastardized or weaponized."

He even noted that the number does not matter in the Catholic online community as long as they "encourage them to find strength in their faith.”

"In the Catholic online community, this does not matter as long as you encourage them to find strength in their faith. You have served your purpose," Bishop Billones said.

He said even a few followers led to Christ, which is better than a million followers led away from the Lord.

Bishop Billones encouraged Catholic media evangelizers to develop the "art of bridge-building," as he described these "souls longing to be reached out."

"There are thirsty minds needing enlightenment, and hearts are yearning for meaningful connections, not catfishing or relating to an avatar. We can make a difference," he added.

The CSMS is organized by YouthPinoy, a group of young "online missionaries." designed to help participants learn new skills and strategies for using social media to promote the Catholic faith.

Related Tags

Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines cebu auxiliary bishop CBCP
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