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The Bishops release a Pastoral Letter on the use of social media: "Let Your Speech Always Be Gracious."

The CCCB Episcopal Commission for Justice and Peace has today released its Pastoral Letter on the use of social media titled: “Let Your Speech Always Be Gracious.” The release was timed with the liturgical memorial of Saint Francis de Sales, who was known for his graciousness in speech and who is invoked as a patron saint of writers and publishers.  

Acknowledging the prominent role social media has come to play at an individual and societal level, the Pastoral Letter considers the benefits and dangers of social media from the perspective of Catholic Social Teaching. It provides tools for moral reflection and self-examination, and suggests seven commitments by which to be guided for a more ethical use of social media:

  • check for accuracy
  • seek greater perspective
  • value human dignity
  • bring curiosity into the conversation
  • distinguish between intention and impact
  • privilege “in real life” encounters
  • tend to our time spent online

The Pastoral Letter concludes with Discussion Questions to stimulate deeper reflection individually or in group settings.

It is available in electronic format and can be downloaded from the CCCB website:  

 

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