Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Hong Kong (Agenzia Fides) - Nowadays, words like “internet,” “blog,” “facebook”… are household terms for the youth, even in Hong Kong. This reality presents the need to offer clear instructions to the youth as to their correct use of these instruments in their formation and growth and not for their “self-destruction.” This is the opinion shared by Catholic students and members of religious institutes in Hong Kong, who participated in an encounter reflecting on the matter. According to a report in Kong Ko Bao (the Chinese version of the diocesan bulletin), the blog launched by Sr. Sania Ho, FMM, head of the pastoral ministry of St. Benedict’s Parish, has found it to be an extremely effective instrument of evangelization. The blog includes information on prayer, testimonies, and Biblical reflections, and it is a frequently visited site. There is also a part on answers to young people’s questions on life, vocations, and the problems that the youth face today. During the encounter, the religious sister assured listeners of the usefulness of the new technologies in pastoral ministry and that she herself is implementing in her local parish. She also shared her personal experience, saying that “through Facebook, I have been able to find so many friends that I had lost sight of, over time. However, this kind of contact with people is not enough. The relationship between people demands a physical, personal contact. Young people, especially, should not spend all their time and youth on the web. Thus, a careful instruction is needed in this sense.” According to Prof. Lian Tian Wei, of the School of Social Communications at the University of Shu Ren, “Facebook runs the risk of violating personal privacy. We need to offer moral and ethical instruction to young people.” (NZ) (Agenzia Fides 23/4/2008; righe 22, parole 291)
