Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Bogota (Fides Service) - “Secularisation of Society and Means of Communication” in the light of the post synodal exhortation Ecclesia in America was the theme of the 33rd meeting for Catholic Bishops of the continent of America held 15 and 16 February at the Colombian Bishops retreat House in Bogota. The meeting also discussed preparations for the 5th General Conference of the Council of Latin American Bishops’ Conferences planned for February 2007.
In a final statement the Bishops voiced appreciation for the media “gifts of God and a treasure for humanity” which help spread knowledge including knowledge of the Catholic faith. Recognising the influence of the media the Bishops say that for the media “human dignity should always be a priority value”. Therefore the media are called to “promote the development of the human person and of society, rather than de-humanisation”. In this sense the Bishops explain “the media must demonstrate their commitment for the truth” because for many people the truth is connected with what they see and hear in the media. Therefore “when commitment for truth is lacking in the media, the judgement and behaviour of the people are likewise distorted”. The statement also underlines that local Churches should provide media workers with support in the faith and help them to be witnesses to Christ in the world, enabling them acquire profound knowledge of the Church as well as sound moral formation. (R.Z.) (Agenzia Fides 21/2/2005; righe 19; parole 276)
