President of Pontifical Council for Social Communications,
Vatican City
One of the important themes of this Synod is communications - communications for more effectively proclaiming the good news of Jesus Christ.
There are many commendable initiatives in communications in Africa. A Catholic radio station has existed in Monrovia, Liberia, for many years. There have been a Catholic newspaper, television production studios and communications training centres. The Pan-African Episcopal Committee for Social Communications (CEPACS) was established.
The Bishops of Africa themselves have said that much remains to be done.
A first step would be the establishment and adequate staffing of a communications office in every Episcopal Conference or region, strategic planning in every diocese, Episcopal Conference and region outlined in the 1992 pastoral instruction "Aetatis Novae".
Primary emphasis should certainly be given to formation ? the formation of priests and seminarians in communications, the preparation of women not only in the techniques of communication and media management but also in theology, philosophy and spirituality. This may require the establishment of new training centres. Communications workshops may be conducted for the Bishops.
The next priority would see to be radio. It is important to apply for radio licenses and to launch stations which can not only proclaim the Gospel more widely but can also help human development where the Church is present. There still remains the question of the possibility of a continent-wide or regional radio station for Africa either through short-wave or satellite.
A third priority would be the development of television and video productions for use not only on local television stations, but especially in catechetical and sacramental preparation programs.
A fourth need would be the strengthening or establishment of more Catholic publications and of Catholic news agencies.
Finally, the diocesan and national communications offices must remain in continuing contact with the media in their area - not only to respond to questions, but also to make known the wonderful work that the Church is doing. By divine mandate, communication is the primary responsibility of the Church - and at this moment in Africa we have an unprecedented opportunity to share through many media the saving message of the Word made flesh, Jesus Christ.
Original
text: English
