By Obianuju Azukaego
The Catholic cleric of the Diocese of Awka, Rev. Fr. Johnbosco Igwe, has called on Christians to verify the authenticity and source of any information before sharing it on digital platforms. Fr. Igwe made the call on Sunday during the Catholic Archdiocese of Onitsha’s Communication Week, held at Shanahan Hall, Basilica Square of the Most Holy Trinity, Onitsha, Anambra State.
Speaking on the theme “Truth and Wisdom in the Digital Age,”he observed that truth has become increasingly commodified in the digital era. He urged Christians to exercise discernment by carefully verifying and cross-checking information circulating on social media before disseminating it.
The cleric outlined some challenges posed by artificial intelligence and the digital age, including the potential to undermine the natural development of children’s judgment and wisdom. He also acknowledged the benefits of the digital era, such as accelerated learning, improved communication with loved ones, expanded opportunities for evangelization, and advancements in medical diagnosis. Fr. Igwe further categorized internet users into three groups: Digital Vagabonds, Digital Tourists, and Digital Pilgrims, noting the differing levels of intentionality in their online engagement.
Other speakers at the event included Rev. Fr. Dr. Martin Anwusi, who delivered a lecture on “Human Dignity: Our Faces and Voices as God’s Gift.” Additional lectures addressed the combating of fake news and misinformation, as well as the future of human expression in the age of artificial intelligence.
In his opening remarks, Rev. Fr. Vincent Chukwuka, speaking on behalf of the Archdiocesan Director of Communications, Very Rev. Fr. George Adimike, stated that the Archdiocese organized the Communication Week to equip the faithful with knowledge on responsible use of digital media.
Concluding the event, Fr. Chukwuka, who also serves as Editor of Trinitas Newspaper, thanked the speakers and participants, particularly parishioners from across the Archdiocese. He noted that the Archdiocese was making steady progress in educating the public about the digital age and artificial intelligence, and expressed optimism that next year’s edition would be even more impactful.
Obianuju is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
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