The Catholic Church is set to observe the 58th World Communications Sunday on May 12 and will focus its observance on artificial intelligence-an evolving technology that tries to simulate human intelligence using machines.
Radio Veritas vice president and Archdiocese of Manila Office of Communications director Fr. Roy Bellen said modern methods of communication like artificial intelligence may be considered as blessings that can aid the Church in its evangelization efforts using media.
“We acknowledge artificial intelligence and many other inventions as graces and blessings from God. This was precisely the essence of Inter Mirifica, the first document on social communications that was released during Vatican 2 that all means of communications are God given to help us in our mission to evangelize in all parts of the world,” said Fr. Bellen over Radio Veritas.
The theme for the 58th World Communications Sunday is “Artificial Intelligence and the Wisdom of the Heart: Towards a Fully Human Communication.”
The Church leader however stressed the need for the proper and responsible use of the modern technology.
“Latest innovations in technology like AI may be considered as a gift when used responsibly or a curse when used inappropriately especially when it is used to destroy others,” said Fr. Bellen.
“Modern technology becomes beneficial when used by people who have formation, knowledge on its proper use and always with the best intentions,” he added.
The priest encouraged the public to continue to hone their skills in the use of modern methods of communication and to use them conscientiously.
Meanwhile, all parishes under the jurisdiction of the Archdiocese of Manila will conduct a second collection on the evening of May 11, Saturday until May 12, Sunday to support the apostolate of social communications in the archdiocesan and national levels, said a circular signed by RCAM chancellor Fr. Isidro Marinay.
World Communications Day was established by Pope Paul VI in 1967 “to encourage the faithful to reflect on the opportunities and challenges that the modern means of social communications afford the Church to communicate the Gospel message.”