“The Church is not only called upon to use the mass media to spread the Gospel but, today more than ever, to integrate the message of salvation into the ‘new culture’ that these powerful means of communication create and amplify. It tells us that the use of the techniques and the technologies of contemporary communications is an integral part of its mission in the third millennium.” (John Paul II, The Rapid Development, 2005)
For the past 2,000 years, the Church has striven to reach people where they are. This has always demanded great effort and creativity from the Church. Today one of our challenges is to enculturate God’s message of salvation into a culture born from new media and communication technologies. This culture is fast becoming—and has already become for many—“the principal means of guidance and inspiration” for people in their personal, familial, and social lives. If we hope to reach people and to assist in their formation as followers of Christ, we need to learn this language.
What does this mean concretely?
Website. We, in the Office of Faith Formation, are working towards maintaining a cutting-edge website that takes advantage of all the possibilities of the Internet, especially with high-speed capabilities becoming more widespread and affordable. This includes streaming video, online payment and registration for programs..
Video Production. In the new Media Center, we will be producing catechetical videos, which will be made available either on DVD or online as tools for catechists. We will strive to integrate modern production techniques and style in an effective and appropriate way. Currently we are working on a faith formation series, as well as videos for Marriage Preparation, Baptism, and other sacraments.
Support. We are here to support you in your parish ministry and to help you take advantage of all the ways you can integrate what you teach into new media technologies. This includes providing resources, advice, offering workshops, and networking.
News. We will provide ongoing news and items of interest on this website to keep you informed about what is happening in the world of faith and media, from new resources and technologies to the latest films and TV shows that can be used as tools in ministry. A Means to an End. All of these means have one end in mind: to bring people to the Church and a deeper, living communion with God and the Church. This means that face-to-face encounters, instruction, and community can never be replaced. We hope that all those who view our videos and use our website will be inspired to embrace the fullness of life and continue on the path of formation in Christ in the communion of their local church. | 
