Study group proposals for future of digital evangelization

To respond to this challenge, a study group had been set up a few months earlier by the Argentine pope with the aim of “identifying concrete ways to faithfully carry out the Church's digital mission.”

This group is made up of eight people from various academic sectors, both lay and non-lay. Among them are French nun Nathalie Becquart, secretary general of the synod, and Paolo Ruffini, prefect of the Dicastery for Communication. In its 27-page report (PDF), the study group develops its reflections on “how the Church can learn from, adapt to, and carry forward its mission within the digital environment.”

“First, the digital environment is not merely a set of tools to be mastered; it is a culture,” the document states. The eight members of the group therefore emphasize that the Church's presence in this environment is “essential.” In this way, it will be able to “evangelize contemporary culture and reach out to those in need, wherever they may be.”

This final report encourages the Church to engage in “continued reflection” on “the formation and engagement of digital missionaries.” However, the members of the group acknowledge that their conclusions are “preliminary” given that “digital culture continues to evolve.”

The document specifies that these reflections are the result of a “synodal work of listening and dialogue with many individuals and groups” concerned with this subject: episcopal conferences, experts, young people, digital missionaries, etc. These numerous consultations gave rise to “a more particularized series of insights and recommendations” formulated in the last part of the report.

Among the recommendations made, the first concern the Holy See. The study group calls for the creation of “an Office, Department, or Commission responsible for accompanying the mission in the digital environment.” This possible pontifical commission could thus have the mission of defining “training strategies for different levels (bishops, priests, religious, lay people)” or preparing “documents, guidelines, and vademecums” on this subject.

The document also encourages the Holy See to better support these digital missionaries.

The members thus propose to create “comprehensive formation rooted in theology, pastoral ministry, communication, and digital culture.” Bishops will have to undergo specific training so that they can “accompany and commission digital missionaries.” The Vatican should also “foster national and international networks of those engaged in digital mission,” according to the recommendations.

At the level of national episcopal conferences, the document also calls for the accompaniment and training of missionaries and the establishment of “coordinating committees” at the national level. In the same spirit, it encourages the organization of “national gatherings of digital evangelizers.”

Finally, at the diocesan level, the study group calls for “ensuring clear links between online ministry and in-person community life.” It also urges ensuring that digital missionaries “walk in communion” with local churches “so digital ministry is integrated into diocesan life.”

At all levels, the report also recommends the implementation of “solidarity-driven funding practices” to finance these new evangelization missions. It also encourages the Vatican to develop clear guidelines to prevent abuse and calls for their faithful observance at the national and diocesan levels.