Cardinal David challenges faithful to be 'digital missionaries'

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Caloocan Bishop Pablo Cardinal David has challenged Catholics not to simply gather "followers" or become content creators but to spread the truth, help people discern, build relationships by becoming online missionaries.

"The internet can connect millions of people and still leave them terribly lonely. Algorithms can gather people into groups and still divide them into hostile camps. Your mission is not simply to gather followers. It is to build relationships, create spaces of encounter, and help people journey together," said Cardinal David in his homily at the closing Mass of the first Asian Catholic Digital Missionary Assembly held at Novaliches Cathedral.

"Every screen opens onto a human life. Every post reaches a person with hopes, fears, wounds and a dignity that no argument can erase. Before you answer a comment, share a story or enter a debate, remember: the person on the other side is not an enemy to defeat, but a brother or sister to encounter," he added.

David, speaking about the Gospel reading on forgiveness, talked about countering negative online comments and "Speak the truth with charity. Defend what is right without denying the humanity of the person who disagrees with you."

"When others spread anger, answer with courage. When others spread contempt, answer with dignity. When others close the door, become a bridge," he said.

The prelate said digital missionaries bear these traits: someone who listens, someone who accompanies, someone who makes room for others, someone who builds communion, someone who helps people discern together where the Spirit is leading us.

"And whenever the world says that hatred must have the last word, let your lives and your words proclaim the Gospel: In Christ, forgiveness is stronger than resentment, communion is stronger than division, and a new beginning is always possible," he added. — BAP, GMA News