Too many of us find ourselves following media trends just because they are “cool.” But is media bringing us closer to God or is it pulling us away from our Catholic faith? I fear that the media is pushing youth away from Catholic teachings.

Media’s influence on impressionable young people is extensive. Whether through the platform of television, music, movies or magazines (to name a few), the sheer volume of exposure makes it easy to understand why media is such a powerful force.

In the realm of books, youth are more likely to sink their teeth into vampire novels than savour the Bible. This is because religion is almost always seen as a taboo topic; one more likely to elicit eye rolls than conversation.

Whether it’s Jersey Shore, the popular MTV reality show, or Lady Gaga’s newest risqué music video, “Alejandro,” youth are constantly exposed to vulgar language, sexual images and excessive violence. All these can influence the attitude and behaviour of young people, causing them to stray from religious teachings.

Teen pregnancy and drugs are no longer shocking to us. Most youth look up to celebrities seen in movies and on MuchMusic and MTV for guidance. Sadly, Hollywood seldom offers the best role models.

It also doesn’t help that most teens are reading daily headlines and articles about scandals in religion and society.  

But there is also a positive side. Media has the power to bring youth toward religious teachings. Media now gives religious communities the ability to spread their message to many more people in newer ways, such as television shows, the Internet and faith apps.

While I was perusing my iPod for some new apps, I came across an app for the Catholic Bible. I was surprised.

I had never thought the Catholic faith would be accessible this way. The world really is at our fingertips. Media and technology not only make it easier to fit religion into our lives, but they bring religion to us in ways that are interesting and capable of leading more youth towards God.

Unfortunately, young people remain more exposed to mainstream media and its negative influences. That is going to make it even more difficult for future generations to live a Catholic lifestyle. I already see this in my younger brother, who is attracted to everything “cool” he sees on television and in the movies.

But there is hope. Positive Catholic media is out there. We just have to find it.

(D’Souza, 17, is a Grade 12 student at Pope John Paul II Catholic Secondary School in Toronto.)