Social+Networking+-+What+Does+the+Church+Have+to+Say

** Assignment #2 **
Expected time to complete reading and the written assignment: 15 - 45 minutes

Your assignment for this segment is to post a SHORT reflection paragraph about what you learned from reading ONE of the church publications listed below. Your reflection can be about anything you found interesting or relevant to your ministry in your reading. For example, you could reflect on your role as a catechist in maintaining a safe __#|online__ environment in compliance with the diocesan guidelines. Or you could reflect on the themes related to moral responsibility that you read about in Inter Mirifica. Choose something that is interesting and relevant to you.
 * [|World Communications Day Message 2013]
 * [|USCCB Guidelines for Use of Social Media]
 * [|Diocese of St. Petersburg, Guidelines for Social Networking, 2011]
 * [|Inter Mirifica]

// Remember to select the "Edit" button, and add your name, the document you read, and your reflection below. When you are done, be sure to click on "Save." //

// Post your reflection paragraph below using the following format: //

Claire Hamilton USCCB Guidelines for Use of Social Media I am responsible for providing the Children's Faith Formation Program for our parish. I've come to believe that, to successfully reach my target group, one of the tools I need to use is the venue in which they most often communicate with each other--social networking. I enrolled in DDBC with the goal of developing the skills and information needed to put in place a network for the program. The USCCB Guidelines provides a map of the initial points to consider when developing that network. While its statements of Definitions and Guidelines were most helpful, I was particularly intrigued by the discussion of the three categories of opportunities and challenges to Catholic organizations developing its social media capabilities: Visibility, Community, and Accountability. In the area of Visibility, one size does not fit all. Consideration must be given to matching the tool to the need of the parish and commitment must be made to follow-through. When considering Community, social media is a tool which can perhaps assist in building community, but cannot replace the "face-to-face gatherings" needed by the social being, man. As the Guidelines point out, "Membership in communities also requires accountability and responsibility". Those putting information out into the social media stream must make every effort to provide accurate information presented in a manner which acknowledges the rights and dignity of those being written about and to.

Jenny Berryhill World Communications Day Message by Benedict XVI "The challenge facing social networks is how to be truly inclusive: thus they will benefit from the full participation of believers who desire to share the message of Jesus and the values of human dignity which his teaching promotes. Believers are increasingly aware that, unless the Good News is made known also in the digital world, it may be absent in the experience of many people for whom this existential space is important."

This paragraph struck me because so often we as Christians feel like we have to reject the things of this work in order to stay focused on the next world and yet what I really believe is that we have to not be attached to the things of this world but always look for ways to make this world point to the next.

It is much easier to say that I don't want to learn about social media and how to use it because I don't want to get caught up in the fad and I have more important things to do then try to be authentic in an "artifical virtual world" and yet for many people this is where they really want to be or think that they are the most comfortable and so I have to leave my comfort zone and start to be a part of the virtual world in order to bring Christ to that place.

Patti Gehred

Message of His Holiness

One of the reasons I have wanted to be up-to-date on social networking is to help be a positive force on the internet. Pope Benedict writes, “. . . if conducted respectfully and with concern for privacy, responsibility and truthfulness can reinforce bond of unity between individuals and effectively promote the harmony of the human family.” We cannot keep our heads in the sand when it comes to what people younger than us are participating in. We may not always upload or download properly, but we do bring wisdom to the cyberspace table. We need to be out there modeling positive online communication.

Benedict continues, “At times the gentle voice of reason can be overwhelmed by the din of excessive information.” In our culture we are overwhelmed with messages from people who are trying to make money from our insecurities. Recently I heard a speaker say, “We need to ask ourselves; does humankind create culture or does culture create humankind?” We need to be involved in the culture of online communication so we can make sure the best of humankind is represented.

However, we also need to tend to our own needs and social media offers many ways of feeding our spiritual side. Benedict writes, “In the digital world there are social networks which offer our contemporaries opportunities for prayer, mediation and sharing the word of God.” The more “clicks” the good stuff gets, the higher on our google search page it will rise, and culture will have to open its eyes and take notice.

The USCCB Guidelines and the Diocese of St. Petersburg Guidelines make a clear distinction between "social media" communications such as Facebook, a blog, etc, and "private technology" communications such as emailing. The wider the number of people who can be impacted by whatever I put down in "social media," the greater is my responsibility to care for the dignity of all potential sharers of what I have put out in public. Also, when I use "social media" for a faith based purpose, then what I put down must invite "dialogue" and not a simplistic "this is it like it or not" approach to any faith issue even ones dealing with political or moral realities and with areas of life that Catholics are generally divided on in regards to "what's the right thing to do."

When using social __networking__ a prime consideration is that not only are ideas and individuals using it our sharing part of their very being. this places an enormous responsibility on all those who use social networking sites especially concerning respect of other culture diversities, tolerance of different ideas and concern for privacy issues. This is essential when the dialogue is about faith and the witnessing of that faith. The mission of the church is to preach the Gospel to all nations and social networking can certainly put us in touch with today's young people providing us with a forum to witness the Gospel. It can also connect us as we share our faith across international boundaries-but again great caution seems to be needed and much pray. ajs

The Diocese of St. Petersburg article was disappointing to me. I expected more ideas of how to reach young people. Instead, it was more of a "do not" article. Social media concerns are not new to me, given that I have 3 teenagers, so an article of "do not" is not helpful to me. I will research other articles that will help me reach out to those who prefer a digital message. The one part of the article I did like was to be sure to create a safe environment for those participating. Online etiquette can suffer when people hide behind their computers. I already started a facebook group for our parish RCIA, so I will be sure to post something about that. lwn

The World Communications Day Message of Pope Benedict XVI brings up some good points about looking and "listening" for that "still, small voice" (1Kig 19:11-12) of God in what can be a world where sensationalism can seem to prevail. We as a people who want to spread the Good News must have a commitment to being a gentle voice of reason and respect. After reading this article and the Pope pointing to how the digital and social networks can be an important part of communicating the mystery of God's love, I have to admit that I do not feel prepared as yet to take this on. Written communication has never been my strong point. The sentence, "Trust in the power of God's work must always be greater than any confidence we place in human means.", however, is something I will always try to remember as I continue on this journey, and it gives me courage. KimA123

The USCCB Guidelines Terri Moser (Stillhvehope) Since I have administered a Facebook Page and a Twitter page for the parish now for 2 years, I’ve always been a little frightened that it could go wrong any day. Not to say I am not still a bit anxious, but the guidelines were very helpful. I also was led by their guidelines to look into my own diocese’s guidelines which were also informative. Our diocese is more restrictive than the USCCB in a few ways. USCCB suggested a disclaimer on one’s personal Facebook page, saying the following: " Many employers and church organizations ask their personnel to consider including a disclaimer on their personal sites, especially if employees/church personnel are highly visible in the community and/or post material related to church work/ministry on their personal sites. One example: 'The views expressed on this site are mine alone and do not necessarily reflect the views of my employer.'" My diocese’s website takes it a step further and forbids any postings of a political or policy or opinion on an employee’s personal page that could be construed as “unorthodox.” I was glad to have been led to read the guidelines to avoid any unintentional missteps.

The USCCB linked to the government’s Child Online Privacy Protection Act, 167 pages long. I didn’t read it. We are trusting the local diocesan guidelines, which are a bit more extensive than the USCCB’s. The recent Vacation Bible School activity obtained releases for 400 children but one family would not sign the release.. I went to that family and asked them to please sign the release, particularly since that day hundreds of parents' iPhones were filming and photographing children and the results all would be online soon. She realized the futility of preventing her children’s pictures from appearing on the web and signed the release. Basically our photos are just groups and the children are never tagged. I am wondering how to resolve the idea that the iPhones are filming and we have no control over the releases of the photos and videos, even though they would not be officially on the parish’s pages.

Someone in DDBC posted that a fear-based view could squelch the creativity of the evangelization and the community building. I keep marching forward with the postings, keeping orthodoxy ever in mind, courtesy in view, and a global, diocesan, parish, and small communities in the mix. The majority of the interest by the viewers is local, with fewer views of Papal or USCCB or even Diocesan events and notices. The VBS slideshow, the Pastor getting a pie in his face, the longtime organist receiving a Lumen Gentium award from the Bishop, environment changes within the sanctuary – these are the photos with triple the clicks, vs. reflection questions for the Sunday Gospel, a life of a saint or even the presider list for Sunday Masses. We’re learning as we go, vigilantly watching the comments, and trying to engage the community in the Gospel. Personally, I’m trying to carry on without the cloud of fear of misstep. It’s a new frontier. Terri Moser –“Stillhvehope”

(Karen Burford) I chose to read the USCCB Guidelines. I can envision a great use of wikispaces for RCIA participants to raise questions and go into greater depth of discussion than is possible during our sessions. The drawbacks of this are daunting to me, however. I do not enjoy debating or reading others’ debates about topics, especially when they are judgmental, mean-spirited, and divisive. When I read an article online, I rarely read the comments sections because I can easily become frustrated or even discouraged. Maybe there is someone else on my RCIA team who would be interested in being the moderator of such a space. I did appreciate knowing the USCCB’s guidelines and will add a code of conduct to my PSR Facebook page right away. I found the link from the USCCB to the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Rule especially informative. When we expand the use of social media to include children, I want to be certain to follow these rules and guidelines and do it correctly from the start.

St. Francis de Sales noted that you can catch more flies with an ounce of honey than with a gallon of vinegar!

Document: World Communications Day Message 2013

Reflection: Pope Benedict's call to be engaged in social networking should inspire and motivate us to fully immerse ourselves in these new technologies in order to effectuate "encounter(s) with the mystery of God's love." These vehicles provide such great opportunities to reach those who would not normally connect with our local parishes. We can share the hope-filled message of the Gospel with them - in their language, the digital language, and in their own unique locations. Facebook, Twitter and the like allow for the infusion of faith perspectives in the discussion and debate of sensitive topics while in neutral environments. Through our participation in these technologies, we can be witnesses to Christ, both in the content we produce and as to our behavior in this "New World". Like the Apostles who entered foreign lands to profess the faith, we should embrace our journeys into the new Cyber-world as messengers of the Gospel of #|Jesus Christ. Sometimes the #|internet and related technologies can seem daunting and perplexing and so far removed from our comfort zone yet we must hold onto the truth that God is right in the midst of it all! Name: Anne Marie Prangley


 * Guidelines for Social Networking Diocese of St Petersburg **
 * This is a great set of guidelines spelling out our responsibilities. I was particularly impressed with the understanding that social networking is a dialog, urging participation. This is a conversation to create community. 2. We need to create a safe environment for those we minister. We model social networking etiquette and skills. It can be used for communication but not for that private, interpersonal type of conversation that is relaxed and casual. 3. I was impressed with the best practices page. I also appreciated explanations and distinctions about using a fan page vs face book, or a facebook inbox or chat in liew of email. **
 * Sister Pat Sipan,SND **

Document: USCCB Guidelines for the Use of Social Media Reflection: The Bishops in this country have submitted for our consideration points that are necessary when entering into the world of social media. While this is certainly the direction that our society is moving in, we must be prudent in the way we utilize the various forms of social media less we run the risk of becoming irrelevant through too much exposure. This is an important point to remember as we begin to utilize the various tools for our classwork. I think it will be important to ask ourselves "Which tool will serve me in my ministry best?" and focus on one or two ways of connecting, instead of 4 or 5. This will allow us to place greater emphasis on the information we pass on those sites rather than mere blurbs that are not as informative or relevant. (It is a matter of sharing a full meal vs. appetizers). Name: Michelle Lemiesz

Reflection: Under __Guiding Principles of the USCCB Guidelines for Use of Social Media__ Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI is quoted, //The world of digital communication, with its almost limitless expressive capacity, makes us appreciate all the more Saint Paul’s exclamation: “Woe to me if I do not preach the Gospel” (1 Cor 9:16). //—Pope Benedict XVI, 44th World Communications Day message (2010). I have never considered in the past how essential our (the Church’s) presence is on Social Networking but in reading these documents I have come to realize that like St. Paul we are not only encouraged to use whatever means is available to us to reach out to those whose lives need Christ present but it is an essential element in what we do as catechists today to reach out to those who hunger and thirst for relationships with Christ and his Church. The more of us who are out there to encounter those looking for this relationship the more likely someone will be able to touch the lives of those who are searching for Christ. I have come to understand that Christ has only our presence to reach out to those who need God’s presence in their lives. Name: Elizabeth Girton Reflection: Pope Paul VI wrote, "The Church recognizes that these media, if properly utilized, can be of great service to mankind, since they greatly contribute to men's entertainment and instruction as well as to the spread and support of the Kingdom of God. The Church recognizes, too, that men can employ these media contrary to the plan of the Creator and to their own loss." [Inter Mirifica] I am heartened by the recognition that entertainment is a valid (and primary, since mentioned first?) purpose to use the technology of social networking, etc. Of course, the dangers are ethere, but it is not prohibited. Name: MESinger

Name: Julie Scott, Bereavement Ministry, Consolation for the Sick and Dying Reflection: //Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI writes, " In our effort to make the // **Gospel present in the digital world** //, we can // **invite people to come together** // for prayer or liturgical celebrations in specific places such as churches and chapels. There should be // **no lack of coherence or unity in the expression of our faith and witness to the Gospel** // in whatever reality we are called to live, whether physical or digital. " // (emphasis added). Making the Gospel present ... It is hard for me to accept the digital reality as the same as physical reality. Why is it important for people to be physically together at some point? Jesus often went alone to pray, to feed his mind and soul; is this somewhat parallel to a digital reality? But in the physical reality,Jesus ate meals with and broke bread with his "family", his apostles in person, even after his Resurrection!. Both are expressions of the same Gospel, but with equal but different realities.

Reflection on USCCB Guidelines As Pastoral Associate in charge of the social media side of our parish’s communication I found this document to be a starting point for creating a best practices and procedures manual. This manual needs to include: 1. How do I help staff and ministers be and stay visible on the social media. 2. Since, ** “ ** A well-considered use of social media has the ultimate goal of encouraging “true friendship” (43rd World Communications Day message [2009]) and of addressing the human longing for meaningful community,” how do we make sure that members don’t substitute media for face-to-face gatherings. And 3, Use the Archdiocesan guidelines to enforce accountability and responsibilities. With this document as a guide, a parish Social Media Manual will be the starting point for all members of staff, both now and in the future. Name: __Ed__ Reising

Reflection on World Communications Day I am so thankful for the blessing of this course. If Digital Catechesis Boot Camp had not come into my life, I would have dismissed social networking because it seems so intimidating. A colleague, in the Diocesan office a couple of months ago, suggested I get a Facebook page and I told her, I don’t think so. However, the Lord knows us better than we know ourselves, so here I am Lord, a tech immigrant, thankful for the Spirit’s nudge to learn how to use this means of communication to spread the Gospel. I remember hearing Sr. Caroline has been involved in technology and catechesis since the 1980’s; I am really out in left field and have a lot of catching up to do. I am grateful to know about the USCCB guidelines for social networking. Over the next couple of weeks, I want to meet with my Diocesan staff and learn about our policies. I must say, the other day, I was logging on to the Digital Catechesis website and was stopped, and had to get permission from my superior to continue. We must have some policy in place. There were many good resources in this module, one in particularly caught my attention and it was on the Pontifical Council for Social Communications News website. They were reflecting on Pope Benedict’s message for World Communications Day … “It is not enough to find an adequate language, but rather, it is necessary to learn how to present the Gospel as the answer to that basic human yearning for meaning and faith, which has already found expression online.” I just finished a course on Youth and Young Adults and it opened my eyes to the need to do catechesis through the lens of technology. This course seems to be the next practical __step__. Mike Hayes reflects in his book GOOGLING GOD that young people need to go no further than their fingertips to search for God and the things of God. In my generation we learned about God from the Catholic culture that surrounded us – our family and relatives, the parish priest and the religious sisters. Each person has a longing in their heart for God (C.C.C. #27) and we, the Church, need to be there for them, online, with expressions of faith. JF

Ann Andriacco, DRE St. Dominic Parish //Reflection on: Inter Mirifica// Vatican Document 1963 “Among the wonderful technological discoveries which men of talent, especially in the present era, have made with God's help, the Church welcomes and promotes with special interest those which have a most direct relation to men's minds and which have uncovered new avenues of communicating most readily news, views and teachings of every sort.” By this they mean modern media including films, television and also the newest social media can be included. They are all a great gift if used properly and well. This Church document asks us to look at what communication really is and how does each medium achieve its effect. It deals primarily with movies, __TV__, radio, etc. readily available at its writing, but in light of today I can see it easily expanded to include the internet, social media like facebook, etc. And the Church __should__ use all the communication methods available to spread the Word. One must always use the lens of ethics and morality as guides. The viewer/listener must keep informed and use a well-formed conscience in choosing what to watch, read, listen to, etc. Parents must help their children learn to evaluate what is presented. They are the guides. Creators of programming who use the media must bear responsibility for leading the viewer to good or evil through the usage of that media. Financial gain should not be the primary goal. Use modern media effectively. It should promote good and bear witness to Christ and the Good News. With today’s global world one must remember the cross cultural impact of the media as well. All media should be used for the common good. Now it is time for us to take this to a new level by diligently employing all the new media available to us in our ministries.

Name: Jan Von Handorf Document: World Communications Day Message 2013 Reflection: People build interpersonal relationships through extended interactions with each other, whether those interactions take place in physical space or cyberspace. Digital technology simply provides new tools that expand the possibilities. Relationships are no longer restricted by physical proximity. Global relationships are the new reality underscoring the importance of dialogue, the sharing of ideas, information, and ourselves. In order to build healthy relationships in person and online trust and mutual respect are essential. As then Pope Benedict XVI notes, cyberspace is the new “agora” and as disciples we must retool ourselves to use this forum appropriately, in a way that reflects the dignity of the human person and “promote(s) the harmony of the human family.”

USCCB Guidelines for Use of Social Media Julie Zinser, St. Vivian I appreciate that the bishops promulgated a well-rounded approach for anyone wanting to set up social media sites in their parish. I do believe the internet has the potential to greatly enhance the visibility of a parish and it's activities, as well as build a sense of community and belonging beyond the walls of the local sanctuary. The church itself has always been a "social being", invoking and imitating the outreach first practiced by Christ himself. Why should the church of today not fully avail herself of the most up-to-date and modern outreach techniques? We are indeed missing out on evangelical opportunities if we do not. One could, in a way, compare the parish who does not engage in social media outreach to those who passed by the injured man in the story of the Good Samaritan. Being aware of the enormous impact of social media on today's society, it is nearly a sin of omission not to spread the lived Gospel through electronic means.

I like how the document included helpful definitions of various social media, and how it listed examples of a code of conduct, as well as ways of dealing with negativity. The code in our own archdiocese (Cincinnati), however, could use a bit of help. (http://www.catholiccincinnati.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/Social-Media-Policy.pdf) Actual guidance is ambiguous, and the frequent use of the line "cause embarrassment to the Archdiocese" is off-putting, even to the point of sounding arrogant. Perhaps referring to the loving adherence to the concepts revealed by Jesus in the Gospels and encoded by the Magisterium would be a more concrete way of putting it, especially as these guidelines take the form of a contract being signed by employees.

Regarding social med/ia itself, I believe this is an excellent opportunity for our priests to become better known, both to their parishioners and the surrounding community, in a more personal, human way. With fewer and fewer priests, we simply don't know them on a personal level like our parents and grandparents knew their priests. I believe priest blogs would go a long way towards helping people develop a personal connection to their parish and faith journey, help paint a more complete picture of the humanity of the priesthood for those who may be considering the vocation, and eliminate a bit of the "us/them" culture that can cloud church issues. We are, after all, ALL church, and ALL in this great faith journey together!

Susan Bellotti, Pastoral Associate, RCIA, AFF at St. Paul, Westerville, Ohio Reflection: World Communication Day 2013 I was interested in the World Communication Day website and read over Pope Benedict’s article written in January on the feast of Francis DeSales in anticipation of WCD 2013 in May. Pope Benedict focused on social networking, its’ importance for our human development and giving guidance to its use for evangelization. The heart of Christian life is proclaiming Jesus. The article is very positive and buoyant. However I was most inspired by the anthem for World Youth Day 2013 in Rio when I noticed a social network site called Xt3 established several years ago to engage Catholic Youth. Look it up and find your beat and smile.

__Reflection on, “47th World Day of Communications Message”__

In the 47th World Day of Communications Message, Pope Benedict elegantly states that digital social networks open up a whole “new” forum to communicate by sharing ideas, information and opinions. Using technology, offers another method to share the Gospel. The importance of community is an important aspect of our Catholic faith. Social networks can foster a sense of community. Pope Benedict reminds us that if we don’t take the technological leap we may miss the opportunity to communicate the Good News to many people, especially our younger church members or potential members. It was Pope Benedict that inspired me to get a Twitter account. Following our church leaders on Twitter is a great way to grow in our faith. The parish I work in is rather large. We have 3300 families. 25% of our members are under the age of 12. 1800 students participate in our religious __#|education program__. When I look at these statistics, I see the importance of using the language that a large percentage of our community is already comfortable using. //Laura Sams//

//Document from USCCB:// Social media can be powerful tools for strengthening community, although social media interaction should not be viewed as a substitute for face-to-face gatherings. Social media can support communities in a myriad of ways: connecting people with similar interests, sharing information about in-person events, providing ways for people to engage in dialogue, etc. Reflection: I often worry with my own teenagers and those teens at our church. that they are losing something by being too tech savy and spending more time with devices than actual people. I am very excited about all these __#|programs__ and social media paths we can use, but I do feel there is a benefit to meeting together, and having real contact with each other. I was glad to see that the USCCB also sees the value in social media and the great tools that we can use, but at the same time,does not advocate that this replace or substitute face-to- face gatherings. I worry our teens are having less face to face contact with one another and/or losing the ability to TALK to one another in something other than text or IM. These social devices are wonderful and the church, I think, is realizing their importance and usage, but we should never give up on the importance to gather with one another. That's why we do before every liturgy! Terri K

__Name:__ Cara A. Stolarczyk __Document:__ "Social Networks: Portals of Truth & Faith: New Spaces for Evangelization" PB16 - 47th World Communications Day __Reflection:__ I just loved the vivid image Pope Benedict XVI used in the opening of this World Communications Day message of digital social networks //"helping to create a new 'agora', an open public square in which people share ideas, information & opinions, and in which new relationships and forms of community can come into being."// It immediately called to mind Acts 17:22-34, where Paul is in Athens standing in the middle of the Areopagus - the public square of his day in Athens - and uses what is familiar to the locals, an altar with an inscription to an unknown god, as a springboard for dialogue to proclaim the Good News of Jesus Christ. In 10 short lines Paul tells the entire story of Jesus and we learn that while some mocked him, other invited him to come back and said, "We will hear you again about this." The Areopagus was a gateway in which Paul stepped in used it as a launching pad to be invited by some to go out among them and in turn "some joined him and believed".

As PB16 goes on to say, the social medium forum and the exchange of information that can take place there, //"can become true communication, links ripen into friendships, and connections facilitate communion"// both in terms of what is shared and how it is shared by the witness that is given by believers in Jesus Christ. He concludes by imparting his blessing to all that we may //"Go into all the world and preach the Gospel to the whole creation."//

As part of the Mystical Body of Christ He needs us to __#|participate__ by inviting others into communion with Him. While it is ultimately Jesus that does the work, he needs us to help turn the attention of others towards Him. St. Teresa of Avila's beautiful prayer "Christ has no body now on earth but yours" summarizes this best [] We need to learn how to and then utilize these tools to lovingly communicate and collaborate with one another to make the Good News present, accessible and inviting to others.

// Patti Kamper //
 * Document: ** Social Media at the Bishop Larkin Pastoral Center of the Diocese of St. Petersburg
 * Reflection: ** As I read through all of these documents I was struck by how strongly the Vatican supports the use of social media and how varied the use and understanding of social media is at the diocesan level. After reading the guidelines set forth by the USCCB and the Diocese of St. Petersburg I was impressed with how complete and comprehensive they appeared compared to my own diocese. As an employee of the church looking to venture into this new world I was appreciative of the Appendix and Best Practices listed by the Diocese of St. Petersburg. As a catechetical leader, I worry about monitoring the use of all these great tools with my volunteers and parents. It certainly seems there is a full-time position for someone to coordinate the monitoring and maintenance of social media for a parish.


 * Document**: USCCB
 * Reflection**: I was struck by two things - the concept of Visibility and the portion on engaging youth. Our parish leaders need to move away from the thinking that web sites and social media is merely about providing information and move into the concept of Visibility as discussed in the USCCB document as relevant information. There needs to be regular posting and updating. People need to want to come back. Our sites need to be the wheat found when separated from the chaff - there's just too much other stuff to get lost in. The USCCB does a good job of reminding users that you must be current, regular, and engaging to be successful and not another voice in the crowd.

Regarding policies when using social media with youth. The USCCB document addresses the need to have parent permission and the need for parents to have access to the same information, but is this really happening? While the USCCB document mentions this need there isn't, in my opinion, great guidance in the how to make sure the contact through social media is always appropriate. //Tara Dibble//

//"Social Media is a **fundamental transformation in the way(s) people find and use information and content**, from hard news to light entertainment. It’s an evolution from broadcast delivery of content—content created by a few and distributed to many—to network delivery, where content can be created by anyone and published to everyone, in a context that is “many to many.” . . . .// //**"The key question that faces each church organization that decides to engage social media is, How will we engage?** Careful consideration should be made to determine the particular strengths of each form of social media (blogs, social networks, text messaging, etc.) and the needs of a ministry, parish, or organization. The strengths should match the needs." (from USCCB Guidelines)// The key phrases in these two statements that stood out to me were "fundamental transformation" and "How will we engage." Since this transformation is quite literally fundamental, it will impact all aspects of parish ministry - especially the way we do faith formation. As the Guidelines state, the question for us in ministry is no longer 'If" or "When" or "Should" we engage but, instead, an urgent "How." The remaining articles gave clear guidelines on implementation at the parish level. //Pat Ruthemeyer// Document: USCCB Social Media Guidelines Reflection: The Bishops’ document discusses both the challenges and opportunities of social media to our Catholic organizations. One particular challenge I feel we need to attend to is described under accountability, **//“Social media’s emphasis is on the word “social,” with a general blurring of the distinction between creators of content and consumers of content. Many communication experts are describing the adaption of social media as a paradigm shift in how humans communicate, a development as important as that of the printing press and the discovery of electronic communication.”//** We need to be especially conscious of our own methods and style of communication both in person and online when we are speaking with generations that are growing up immersed in social media where mutual discussion is the standard and credibility and authority come from multilateral directions. I also have questions around the application of “Rules of the Road” #7 **//“Don’t cite others, post photos or videos of them, link to their material, etc., without their approval."//** I understand this on a personal level, but it seems that parish and diocesan sites frequently repost other’s comments, quotes and posts. Is approval implied only when particular sites offer the opportunity to repost directly from their site? Where can we find more specific guidelines about using material that may be in the public domain? Chris Kreger


 * USCCB Guidelines for the Use of Social Media **

Throughout the guidelines for use of Social Media it was very apparent that the USCCB has a positive view on social media calling it “powerful”, “Community building”, and ”growing.” I think this is important to note because when I talk to people who work at a school or Church they often say that social networks aren’t the right place for their presence. It should be noted that the USCCB is encouraging us to use these tools, as long as we are doing it for the right reasons, to promote His message.

It is a great article for any parish that is looking to come up with a social networking policy, not just for the individual working there, but for a parish social network presence as well.

The USCCB draws clear boundaries between what is okay and not okay for the social network communities.

By: Kristen Ricker

Reflection on World Communication Day Message 2013: Susan McGurgan I was struck immediately by the phrase, the "new agora". The agora in the ancient world was lively, bustling, loud and public. It was a place of competing voices, commercial enterprises, political debates and public interactions. It was the gathering space; the communal living room; a place where everyone, sooner or later, met and interacted. What a rich image for the description of social media! For young adults and youth, but also for an increasing number of older adults, social media is a rich environment that offers the opportunity to reconnect with old friends, meet new ones, and participate in lively conversations that expand our world. Those conversations must include the Church, our faith and the ways in which our lives have been transformed by encounters with Christ. It is not a question of "whether" we should be present on social networking but rather, how we should be present.

Reflection on the USCCB's Guidelines - Michelle Tomshack I also chose the USCCB's Guidelines article for this reflection mainly because I find our diocese really doesn't have any social media guidelines for parish catechesis and as an entity we (our diocese) tend to be reactive about these things instead of proactive. A few things I liked about this article that may help me in trying to initiate the development of some diocesan guidelines: 1.) I, as so many others in this group have mentioned above, like the positive attitude the USCCB has taken. They have seen the advantage of being online. I think this would be a good mindset in developing diocesan guidelines. I especially like the idea of visibility and community. We can form community online and having a presence online increases the church's visibility and ability to reach more people. 2.)Using the tern "accountability" and placing it in the context of "belonging has it's responsibilities" is a great way to introduce guidelines. It is not just another set of rules we have to follow because we are Catholics but we are responsible and accountable! 3.) I think the same 2000 year-old (plus) Christian Code of Conduct comes in play with social media: We are a Resurrection People; we are a joy-filled people; we are called to bring others to Christ not send them away (being hospitable); we are ever mindful of the greatest commandment. These all come into play in our behavior on social media. We need to stay positive, be mindful of our audience and always, always, always treat others as ourselves. In working with youth we need to be transparent and include their parents (we may just be able to catechize the parents at the same time by just keeping them informed!)

This article offered me a foundation to help develop and then send out to parishes some guidelines for their use of social media in catechesis. (Just a side note, I do believe our schools have social media guidelines. I don't think they have ever been used for parish faith formation programs. I will use the schools guidelines as a basis for forming some guidelines for parish programs.)

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I've always been interested in the "morality" of things, mostly because no one ever explained why things were right or wrong when I was a child. They just told you it's right or wrong and that's that. I've always wanted to know the "why." So I was interested in reading about what the Official Decree had to say on the matter of morality in social media and communication. I found it interesting that emphasis was placed on __everyone__ in the Church, from bishops to lay people, having a responsibility to use social media and communication methods to spread the Good News. It made me stop to think about how I use these avenues personally. As a new parent, I whole heartily agree with this decree about parents monitoring what comes into their home via media and communication and that they are the primary founders of their children's moral development. One thing that surprised me though was that, " The principle moral responsibility for the proper use of the media of social communication falls on newsmen, writers, actors, designers, producers, displayers, distributors, operators and sellers, as well as critics and all others who play any part in the production and transmission of mass presentations." In today's world, information is delivered so quickly, I'm curious to see how many of these individuals in such prominent positions stop to think about how important their role in the morality of communication and media is. I know some lines of education require them to take an ethics course, but it would be interesting to see how the content of that course and their ethics have changed over time and how that has effected our moral standing as a society. =====

Name: Barb Blanco World Communications Day Message 2013 I found it intriguing how Pope Benedict XVI recognized the importance of digital social media avenues as effective tools to connect and transmit our Catholic faith, particularly with our youth. As a society, and more importantly, a church community it is a vital message that reminds us how we must stay educated and up to date with new forms of communication. It is particular challenging in church setting where technology is limited due to cost. Our Holy Father speaks of the "new language" that must be employed in order to that we may effectivly shake the Gospel message. As a CRE I experience these challenges as I don't always have the resources available to effectively transmit the faith the way I know we should and could be. Attending the courses will help me to more effectively convince others how vital transition and growth into the digital age is to the ensure our future.


 * Bob Wurzelbacher**
 * Diocese of St. Petersburg, Guidelines for Social Networking, 2011**


 * I chose to comment on the St. Petersburg Social Networking Guidelines because I was the primary writer for the guidelines written for the Archdiocese of Cincinnati in 2010. I noticed the guidelines were remarkably similar, although St. Petersburg took a slightly more restrictive approach. For example, in the policy for St. Petersburg, it requires all personal social media be identified as such and contain a disclaimer for the diocese .The team working with me to write our policy in 2010 recommended that same thing, but I advocated that it is unnecessary (and even impractical) for many social networking sites (like a personal Facebook page), and we restricted such disclaimers to blogs where the blogger identifies as an employee of the Archdiocese. I would still hold my position on that point .I do, however, like the greater restriction to not using personal pages for ministry. Our policy guidelines discourage it, but do not forbid it. When we revise our policy, I will likely advocate to disallow personal sites to be used for officlal ministry purposes.**

Tom Harrmann DRE St. Luke Danville OH Reflection: USCCB Guidelines for the use of social media As the DRE at out parish I am aware of the need to be informed about the use of social media. Our parish as yet does not have a website. As the DRE I feel it my place to bring us into the 21st century and reach out to the students, parents, fallen away etc. in the most comprehensive and informative way. After reading these guidelines I feel much encouraged to push ahead and open the digital door. I can begin to see the MANY benefits of this kind of communication, as a "newbie" I am just now testing the waters and wondering where all this can take me. I am convinced it is so important to meet the students and their parents where they are. As of now there is so much in cyberspace and with proper guidance as we have in the USCCB guidelines much of the Lord's work can be done in this way. I feel like the kid that went out for track in high school who heard there was a race and showed up a day late and is now trying to catch up with the rest of the pack. I know I can put this to use for our parish but I am not sure how just yet. I am sure it will all come into focus as I begin to understand the various formats available. Just like the "The Little Engine That Could" I think I can I think I can I think I can...

St. Pete Guidelines Mary Pat Austing I appreciate the Archdiocese guidelines. The ARCH. guidelines help us all to provide a safer atmosphere for communication. The Staff of Our Archdiocese who work on these type of guidelines help the digital immigrants throughout our area.

Pat McMahon, osf. Director of School of Adult Faith Formation diocese of St. Petersburg guidelines

My primary response to this document was amazement at how detailed it is - and how much I would not like to have had to be a part of the committee which formulated it. At the same time, I am very grateful to those who did put in the time to think through and work out all of these details, so that, I and other end users, do not get caught up in unsafe and unwise practices on Social Media.

As someone who facilitates P__rotecting God's Children__ sessions for the diocese, I am acutely aware that if we invite minors to join us in a social media setting, we must do everything in our power to ensure their safety.

[|USCCB Guidelines for Use of Social Media] – (Heidi Murray, St. Veronica Parish) In order for the general public and parishoners to tune into church posts and tweets, I believe, that these would need to be personable, entertaining and engaging. It would take the right person to strike the balance of providing meaningful/faith forming and engaging entertaining content. Again, the content would need to provide the “hook” that keeps the parishioner coming back. The Church competes with modern schedules and lifestyles to get its members to engage in on-sight activities. Social media is not a whole lot different. There are so many choices that even though people are plugged into their phones, iPads, laptops, etc., there are still so many streams competing for our attention. People use time as an excuse for not being actively engaged in the faith community beyond Sunday mass, but really, it’s about whether the person finds personal value in the activity being chosen – online or in person. With that said, I firmly believe that social media has a real possibility in reaching more members as a means of nuts-and-bolts communication, community building, evangelization and faith formation. It will just take careful thought about our specific community, skill in presentation and a very human approach to the information shared.

Deanna Bartalini, Director of Faith Formation St. Edward, Palm Beach, FL

47th World Communication Day Message, 2013

//"The ability to employ the new languages is required, not just to keep up with the times, but precisely in order to enable the infinite richness of the Gospel to find forms of expression capable of reaching the minds and hearts of all."// This quote sums up why social media is important and why I engage in it for many different reasons. I am compelled to spread the Gospel not only by how I live my life but by participating in the world of social media. If I,as a Catholic Christian, do not use my voice in a positive way I am not helping spread the Good News. While not all of us are called to use the new media, we still must be aware of its potential to engage many people.  World Communication Day Message, 2013 Marty McClain I was amazed at how well Pope Benedict articulated my experiences with social media. As a youth minister, using social media is almost required to be effective. I find that teens and young adults are very willing to share their faith (and doubts about their faith) on Facebook and Twitter, not to mention blogs. They are searching for truth and are very open to listening to others' stories (i.e. witnesses). What an opportunity we, as a Church, have to help our young people learn more about Jesus Christ and the Gospel message through social media. World Communications Day Message, 2013 Dave Gruber, Director of Religious Education, St Elizabeth Church, Columbus, OH

I am focusing on the phrase "//thus they will benefit from the full participation of believers who desire to share the message of Jesus and the values of human dignity which his teaching promotes//". Of all the key themes of the documents of the Second Vatican Council and since then is the desire of the Church that all people be fully and actively engaged in the liturgy and their faith. With the technology and resources available to us today, what better way to fully engage our faith is in the places that our people are, which are on their portable devices and computers. Utilizing social media and other web based resources to communicate the Gospel in a meaningful way in order to engage our people in their faith and encourage active participation in the life of the Church and to live out their faith in daily life. The challenge in Pope Benedict XVI's message is to maintain the dignity of the human person in this technological universe as well as encouraging personal social interaction without hiding behind the anonymity of the screen. Utilizing the social media and other web based tools available to professional lay ecclesial ministers is another tool in our efforts to communicate the Gospel, but we cannot lose sight of the personal interaction needed.

The true challenge for LEM's is how to manage our time and resources in order to effectively engage and dialogue with our communities without diminishing the human dignity of the individual as well as ourselves. I can see numerous ways to incorporate these tools into daily ministry in all the areas I am responsible for. The trick is going to be finding the tools to efficiently manage the multiple audiences and resources effectively to ensure the dialogue is maintained and is not reduced to a mere marketing tool.

Pam Neumann, Pastoral Associate, St. Catherine of Siena in Austin, TX

After reading Pope Benedict’s message for World Communications Day (2013), I was struck by these words: “The development of social networks calls for commitment”. All too often it seems that we try something for a little while, and then abandon it quickly for something new. Embarking on this journey of digital discipleship, I realize that this can’t be a ‘project’. It has to be part of a paradigm shift in the way we evangelize and catechize. Pope Benedict defines the fundamental social needs of the human heart: relationships and friendship, answers to our questions, entertainment, intellectual stimulation, sharing knowledge and know-how. This is probably one of the best descriptions of our agenda in developing digital discipleship. It is what we humans have always done, but using different tools. These are the criteria by which we can assess the usefulness of these new tools: do they contribute to a better sharing of the Good News? I have the task of re-envisioning our faith formation programs in the next year as we prepare to lose our classrooms due to reconstruction. My individual program directors are very fearful of the changes to come. By framing the move to more digital tools in this way, I hope they can embrace the challenge rather than fear it.

BSK- Inter Mirifica I found this proclamation very straight-forward and easy to understand. I think it is important that the high school students I teach read this original document. The discussion generated could revolve around what the document actually says and what it means to them. For me, a great learning will be the honest discussion of meaning and application of the Pope's words.

TP - USCCB Guidlines The thing that hit me when reading the guidlines is that there is no way around social media - it is here to stay. By its very nature, social media is open to many opinions and ways of looking at things. This is a good thing. I hope the church is ready for the voices of all being heard in the public square. We as ministers in the church must be aware and able to respond to the voices the way Jesus would. If we don't know how, then we will be unable to respond to the people of God from the perspective of the Church.

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