Wikis+-+What+Does+the+Church+Have+to+Say

What Does the Church Have to Say About User-Created Web Content?
Expected time to complete this assignment: 30 minutes

Read the entire statement from the USCCB Communications Committee report to the Fall General Assembly. It's not very long.

__#|Social media__: Friend or Foe, Google or Hornswoggle? []

While you are reading, be aware of words of phrases that might __apply__ to our topic of wikis. Now post a short reflection about what impressed you the most in the USCCB statement. If you would like to reference or other Church documents or statements, please do. If you can create a hyperlink to the document, even better!

I'll start you off with an example.

Be sure you are signed in. Click on "Edit" Type in your reflection and your name. SAVE your edit.

Its not clear from looking at this if my reflection show in the correct space. My curser had many areas on this page were I could type even up at the end of the first question posed. Edit areas are usually boxed. I could interject anything in someone else's paragraph - I could see this as a real problem for groups of people having access as in a parish wiki even if they are on the admitted list. Reading this article I am reminded of Pope John XXIII use of the 'newest' communication tool of his day - the TV. Broadcasting the events surrounding the Vat II Council was a substancial catalist of change. I bet it would blows his mind to think of watching the council on a screen in the palm of his hand (without rabbit ears!) Points that stood out for me: get encluturated (learn the digital culture); social media is different from mass media/communication; greatest problem = egalitarianism (anyones opinion is seen as valid) = The 'free love' movement of the 60"s has become the "freely given opinion" of the 3rd mill. I believe its true about young people "if the church is not on their mobile device ity doesn't exist" - I'm thinking of the many teenagers (many of whom have cell phones) who are in church only at Christmas & Easter but show up on my door step for Confirmation or First Communion based on reaching a particular age. There is a whole area of unexplored territory. No spell check available - not good!!! Lynn Edmonds


 * POST YOUR REFLECTIONS HERE: **

I enjoyed the article very much - what stood out for me is the comparison he made to the Protestant Reformation and how the Church could have responded more effectively. I was impressed with his strong language too - i.e., not entering into this cultural mindset puts the Church "at great peril", and "if the church is not on their (young people's) mobile divice, it doesn't exist", and lastly his comparison to the church's expectations for "missionaries to learn cultures of the people they are evangelizing." I cheer (whoo-hoo!) his encouragement to the bishops to __invest__ in staff training and formation in the use of social media as "a new form fo pastoral ministry." I think Bishop Herzog's statement is an important model of what I hope our bishops and prients will embrace whole-heartedly! Interesting article: The 10 Commandments of Church Website Ministry ~ Ruth Appel

Well, world geography has been modified since the discovery of a new continent, "Digital Continent," by our beloved Pope Benedict XVI. Since John Paul II spoke about the involvement of the Internet, as a tool for evangelization, the digital world seen differently by the Church today. One of the most important conclusions of the Vatican II Council is to go with the "Signs of the Times." When Bishop Herzog speaks that in order to teach the message, what changes is not the message but the way that is communicated, it gives an affirmation of hope in the digital world as a tool of communication. During my experience in our Church, I have encountered people of different ages, different cultures and ethnicities, different languages, and/or different backgrounds. This new tool opens up the field to accomplish more in less time. I have written for several websites in the Digital Continent, and had received opinions from brothers and sisters around the Spanish speaking globe, and it feels good to meet with people that otherwise I would've not met. Eulogio

Reading the article by the USCCB's Communications Committee, reminds me of what happened in the 60's and 70's with the hippie movement. The crazy stuff that they were in to, was way out on the fringe, not what the mainstream kids were about. The adults didn't pay too much attention, and in the 70's, all that behavior became the norm and the adults had no idea what had hit them! I'm not being pessimistic, just an analogy. I remember when I was in high school, some of the kids took "Data Entry" lol. They were the fringe. This was encouraged as the up and coming stuff of careers, but to most of us it was BORING...now those kids are probably laughing all the way to the bank. They were proceeding with their careers in IT, while I was having lots of babies. And the computer world left me in the dust. Then, by the time my kids started kindergarten, they were keyboarding and playing computer games in school (now they start in diapers) and I was the adult who didn't pay attention to what was happening, yipes! From my own personal experience with 6 kids from 17 - 27, they are light years ahead of the average adult in the computer world where they live, and we are virtual aliens. Well, as the Communications Committee implies, we have a whole lot of catching up to do and fast. Sue Sharlow

It is really encouraging to have the support from the church leaders to use social media for evangelization. I knew we were moving forward with this, but I was not aware how involved the church is in its desire to explore and apply the benefits of technology and specifically of social media. I love the Church recognizes the fact that we are now in a "digital continent", and that tools such as wikis, Facebook, Twitter, etc... Are excellent ways for us to keep the world informed, engaged, and in closer proximity than ever before. These are tools that, as the communication clearly states, encourage open, immidiate and effective dialogue among a diverse group of people. It is extremely important that we, as the church, recognize "social media" as the "new way to deliver information". Ana M.

I loved the statement by Bishop Herzog that the Church doesn't have to change the message to reach young people, but "we must deliver it to them in a new way". It came to mind that in parish life, staffs are usually overworked and ministries lack funds - especially with our new cluster arrangements in the DOSP, wikis would be a great way for clusters to share info and ideas on cein topics. Mary Miller

I have been extremely pleased at the support digital technology and Web 2.0 is receivng from Rome and the Bishops. This article points out the awesome opprtunity we have to evangelize through social media and tools like blogs and wiki's. Bishop Herzog is also point on with the observation, that we can't ignore Legacy media or the traditional means of communication as their are members of our Parish devout, yet still using those means, Additionally he points out what I believe is the greatest challenge and that is the choices available in the digital forum and the speed of change. We all need to commit ourselves to constant learning and teaching of technology and the integration of the same into our parishes and schools. Iy kind of reminds me of an old saying my father had " Lead, Follow. or Get Out of the Way". I like being the leader and it is great to know I have this kind of support and resources. I can see wiki's in many places in our minitries, beginning with Lesson Plans for our Catechists, Reflections for our Small Christian Communities, Training, and Event Planning. First though, i am going to try my hand a at wiki for our construction meetings. We could have saved a ton of time and e-mails, had I know how to use this tool before. posted by Kevin Hansut Lots of great ideas, Kevin. Is your church constructing a new hall?

At this time I am not sure how I will put wikis into practice. While the idea sounds great it comes with many challenges in a parish that has a much older demographic. I do look forward to learning more and finding ways to introduce this resource. The fact that the bishops are supportive may help in the long run at the parish level where not all of the priests use computers, and doing collaboration via computer is something they just don't want to do. posted by-Janet Mitchel Sometimes people just need to be shown. You never know I thin you're totally correct when you say that having the bishops' support will help! .Amy

I was impressed that the bishops recognize the evangelization opportunity created by social media. That could apply to wikis, too. If wikis allow ANYONE to contribute, maybe I could set up a wiki for two Catholic __#|schools__ to collaborate in a project. I think my junior high students might enjoy that. I have been searching for a project where they can articulate their faith in a new way. -posted by Claudia

I also was impressed that the bishops recognize the opportunities and needs for going digital. I believe that even though we are now recognizing the the opportunities, there is also a reluctance to dive too deeply into the digital world. I think that wikis could be used in many ways within each parish. For example, within my own parish community I can envision wikis being used as a collaboration between our catechists on lesson planning, as a training tool for our Altar Servers, and as a collaboration in planning within our Early Childhood Education program. I like the idea of setting up a project in a wiki for my pre-confirmation students. -posted by Jennifer ==== Jennifer, you've picked up on that tension: the need and reluctance to go digital. I love how you have so many possibilities for wiki's in ministry. If you're really excited about it, consider choosing one and setting up something as your capstone project... Kristi ====

I think like everyone the Bishops are realizing if we can't beat them we must join them and well lets do it in away that can really glorify the Lord. That being said I am seeing that we can use social media not only as a way to get the word out but to get excitement out. I already use FB and Twitter but wiki's will open a whole new world where we can share with out always being in the church building. I like the idea of using this for the confirmation program and think the teens might be more serious if others are also reading what they write.

Sherry F And we thought bishops were old-fashioned! Seriously it is exciting to see the leadership of the Church so cognisent of the need to reach people "where they are". The Disciples went to the people as we must. The term Digital Continent is so true. As our church is Universal, so is the social media connection in a unifying way that has never been available before. I hope this message is not being pushed under the rug in some parishes. Staff training and parocial leadership are so important. The possibilities are endless. The Gospel can be spread as never before. We live in amazing times. They must be embraced. Yes, it is heart-warming to know that many of our bishops see the importance of Digital Communications in today's world! -SC

This is an article that I had to read several times and really need to read again and again. It is packed with numerous ideas and suggestions. A couple of suggestions that struck me was the need for well-trained leaders to train other leaders in the digital ministry and the need that many baby boomers still use newspapers, bulletins etc. This says to me that as leaders and trainers we must be very patient with groups of people that down in their gut want to participate in the digital world but need hlp to make this transition. Kathleen Kirkpatrick ==== Well trained leaders, Kathleen- you've hit the bullseye. Imagine if we had younger digital natives helping church leaders learn web2.0, and at the same time the church leaders mentoring the kids in faith formation!! - Kristi ====

The statics of the amount of people that use the internet is astonding. With the many people there is, I'm wondering why this forum of communication we have has not been utilized before. We are easy to be friends with people we don't even know, but find excuses to attend mass on a regular basis. This is an opportunity to actually give the students a reason to be on the internet and see the benefits. As I'm writting this, I remember when I was growing up and the church teaching was so different. Now we have mass on television for those who are unable to attend, and the internet to watch clippings of surmons that we were not able to witness. The church can recognize this as a way of God reaching us by any means necessary. Rachele Deering Amen Rachele! Excellent observation.

I just completed an online course on Vatican II and the Decree on Ecumenism, while reading Bishop Herzog's article thoughts returned to that online course and reaching out to our separated brothers and sisters through dialogue. Within our own Church, we are separated (differently albeit) but wikis and other digital tools can be a way to reach those that traditional means would otherwise omit. Providing the opportunity for input and dialogue is a great way to build community. I had to laugh to myself when I see that Bishops, a number of Dioceses [|Michigan Catholic Conference] and Pope Benedict XVI are all speaking the same language - one of Digital Community - all within the context of the Church, and here I am reluctant to take the chance. There have been other times like Peter, I've jumped out of the boat into the water. Kristi, Caroline, Claudia and Amy - the water's just fine - so how much deeper does the water get? :) Susan Ajoc

Great question, Susan - we'll find out together, though I'm pretty sure its limitless!! - Kristi
I was thinking what a great opportunity to further develop, explore, or discuss the Sunday's readings and especially the homily... which sadly can be very forgettable by the time we cross the threshold to leave the church. I think these statements by the bishops so often remain "in the books" as historically many of their statements have as far as the community's awareness. In other words, people aren't aware of where the Church stands on many issues because they aren't aware of the documents. - Dale Interesting Dale, to combine a few homily points with Church teaching, and open it to comments from the parishioners. Is the church ready for that, or brave enough? - Kristi

I think that social media is a great to reach young Catholics and keep them involved in the Church. This media is a great way to Catechize as well as involve those that use social media. Today is not just about the written word ( ie: bulletins) it is about reaching people continually. I find that many parishes start using social media then it fades away and the people that use social media are lost to the parish. The Parishes need to communicate with people in the manner of the 21st Century. Ruth E

I have read the document and as I reflect on the comments of the Bishops... One thing that I noticed was the comments of Pope Benedict... It is the direction of the church not only in America but across the lands. One thing we need to be aware of is that staffs and churches around the world need to be trained. As the Communications Office discovered people are willing to use the resources available to reach the uncharged but only with proper training. In recent years the USCCB and theVatican has time and time again modeled for us the need to keep up with the times but with proper school and training. It is in this model that we need to be mofeling for one another and our ministries. If you wish your ministry to use digital resources then you must be willing to provide and pay for training of your ministers.-Barbara E

It is smart of the Church to embrace social media and it is smart of Bishop Herzog to address it. Speed and ease make it a logical choice in evangelization and support for Catholics of all ages, but especially for the "young" to whom it is second nature. They are the future of the Church! Who doesn't have a computer access these days? How many have abandoned their land lines for cell phone use, and how many of those phones are smart phones? Many don't even check e-mail anymore. Other messaging systems take precedence and are more handy since they are attached to the social media in which the people are already engaged. It's clearly a new and effective way to reach the people. Kelli B. True! Part of our challenge is bridging the divide between those who have access and those who don't (have or use) - Kristi

Humm, a "fundamental shift in communication patterns." This is pretty substantial when you look at the history of the world. When you look at the advances in science, travel and other forms of communication, we have not gone backward, but only forward in these areas. I am glad to hear the Catholic bishops realize that. I do find it interesting that the world is moving forward fast andthe church still seems to be moving at the pace of 1,500 years ago. What does this mean? I'm not sure, but it is interesting. - Mary Jane Spirk Very interesting, Mary Jane! What does this mean if it's a fundamental shift?! - Kristi

It seems it's "step it up or prepare to step aside" because this technological world and it's opportunities for outreach and engagement are going to pass you by! Thankfully the Church is recognizing the necessity. I like the idea that we need to be training more staff in this regard. I am thankful that our pastor is on the same page and has been very encouraging in my efforts for outreach through our website, FB and ENews. Ginny Nolan Ginny Great observation! What a blessing that you are! Amy

Interesting thought about the Protestant Ref. If we don't get on the ball with this we will lose many young and old (they are learning to keep up with the young in their families and their workplaces) alike and have to recover the from the fallout. Glad to see that Bishop Herzog (from MS like I am) is on top of the game. This could eliminate deanery meetings and all that traveling for parish staff. Sybil Steuart Could you imagine!!! Amy

Ok two impressions…First, I was re-reminded how vital it is for us individually and corporately to be present to others on social media given the potential for reaching new people. We can reach far more people than the standard homily considering “the opportunity for immediate dialogue and conversation that transcends geographical and other physical barriers”. Second, while I understand and agree with the importance of this, I don’t feel quite qualified to speak to this culture. As stated, “We digital immigrants need lessons on the digital culture, just as we expect missionaries to learn the cultures of the people they are evangelizing.” Who can teach us, or is this something you pick up over time through immersion? Great article, very encouraging. (Lori Crawford) - Yes, it is important to become inculturated in this ever evolving an new culture. - SC

For someone who always thought she was “in step” with the times, I have been quite surprised and moreover very pleased to see how the Catholic Church is moving into the future. How amazing to think I can contribute in some way to the evangelization of the digital continent! When I think of the first religious who travelled throughout Latin America and the Caribbean in the 1500’s and beyond to evangelize to reach a few and risking life and limb, here we have something that we can do to reach so many more from the comfort and convenience of our homes or offices…just expending time, love and effort to make it happen. We must get our staff to climb aboard and be trained in this. I would guess that most of our parishioners aren’t aware of the church’s stand on this. What a blessing that our Pastor has been so insightful to give us this opportunity. Ann Ferguson

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