In the not-too-distant past, people were more likely to connect with each other in person, often through attending Mass and other religious gatherings. Many individuals chose to openly practice their faith with the other members of their community who shared the same beliefs. They were able to pray and praise together. However, as our technology and way of communication improved, we have seen a decrease in the number of individuals who attend Mass and participate in religious events. Yet, many of these individuals find time for returning e-mails and checking Facebook to keep informed about others’ lives.
Still, for me, social media sites have been a very good outlet for relieving my stress and sharing my thoughts about school, friendships and society. Social media has become an important part of my life because it keeps me updated with current events and also connected with many of my peers. I find it very beneficial since it enables many of us to share our beliefs and even express our faith. Individuals can also easily access the readings for the Mass online or find Bible passages tweeted or posted by people who thought that it was worth sharing. There are also many accounts that help to spread the Good News and do not require people to read beyond 140 characters.
On the other hand, we have heard cases where social media has been inappropriately used to hurt other individuals, such as cyber-bullying. The lack of identity in the virtual world provides the opportunity for individuals to say impolite and disrespectful thingsthat they probably wouldn’t say in person. Somehow, in the process of expressing ourselves online, we have disregarded our own Catholic values and morals. We became inconsiderate towards other people’s feelings and values and prioritized our own opinions ahead of others.
As we pay more attention to our social media sites, we have also started to pay less attention to the realities of the physical world around us. Every day, I notice that the streets, trains and buses are filled with many people looking down at their phones. Many are sharing their lives on social media sites, but forgetting to truly experience their lives because they are so caught up in their online world.
Social media sites may have achieved their goal of bringing our communities closer together, but as we may be becoming more social, we have also started to become less spiritual and disconnected from our faith.
(Juson, 18, is a Grade 12 student at St. Joseph’s College School in Toronto.)