The Catholic Church utilizes the media in a very effective and purposeful manor, integrating it into their teachings and daily activities while preserving the traditions and history that the practice is based on. The Church maintains and encourages a balance of media use, both, within and outside of the Church walls. However, after observing an Easter service in Padua, Italy, it is evident that the use of media within mass is limited to print, if any media at all.
The presence of the Catholic Church on the internet, in advertisements and in printed publications strengthens their religious communication, allowing the faith to reach those outside of their community. For example, Pope Francis established his presence on the internet through his social media accounts on Twitter and Instagram. Digital media does not have a large presence within Catholic services other than the microphone that the priest uses in order to effectively communicate to the members. Media exists in the form of service handouts. These flyers are dispersed at the door upon entering the church. The paper holds information such as the daily reading, responses and hymns, as well as outside announcements. In addition to the flyer, there are hymn books available in the pews. Other than those two tangible sources, media is limited within a Catholic service. These examples were observed on an Easter Saturday service at the Basilica of Saint Anthony in Padua.
In relation to the Communio et Progressio, the Catholic Church’s use of media aligns with what is stated in this instruction. As mentioned in the second paragraph of the Communio et Progressio, “the Church sees the media as ‘gifts of God’ which, in accordance with His providential design, unite men in brotherhood and so help them to cooperate with His plan for their salvation” (Communio et Progessio, 1971, p. 1). The use of media within the Church is only necessary if it glorifies God and enhances the community, as well as its individual members. The mass handouts and hymn books hold information to better the community and guide them in order to participate in the mass.
The fuzzy photo above was taken at the Holy Procession in Castiglion Fiorentino on Friday, April 19th, showing the head priest utilizing his iPhone during the event. At first it appeared he was reading off of his cellular device as a guide or script. Another time, it was clear he was using his phone as a flashlight. Regardless, this is a sight rarely seen by the Catholic community, especially during an event like this one. However, the priest was using his cell phone for a reasonable purpose, unlike if he were to have been checking his emails or going on Facebook during the Procession. The use of the priests cell phone during the Procession, although it may have helped him, did not contribute to the actual message, yet, it also was not a distraction.
Sources:
Communio et Progressio. (1971). http://www.vatican.va/roman_curia/pontifical_councils/pccs documents/rc_pc_pccs_doc_23051971_communio_en.html