In reference to paragraphs 2493 – 2499 of the Catechism of the Catholic Church, the Local Ordinary of Buea Diocese has emphasized the importance of truthfulness in communication for journalists and Christians alike. “Every journalist must stand for the truth and verify facts before sharing information. They must uphold justice in their communications,” he stated. The Local Ordinary urged everyone, regardless of their formal training in journalism, to refrain from spreading falsehoods in their communications.
Bishop Bibi teaches on the social communication Commision
These remarks were made on Monday, August 11, 2025 during his catechetical teachings on the Social Communications Commission, one of the 19 themes of evangelization outlined in the Bamenda Provincial Pastoral Plan. The objective of the Social Communication Commission is to make Christ known, loved, and followed, assigning its members the responsibility of spreading the Gospel.
Catechetical session, St. Martin De Pores Parish, Bokwango
Bishop Bibi highlighted that everyone functions as a communicator at various levels. He cited “Inter Mirifica,” a decree of the Second Vatican Council promulgated by Pope Paul VI, which underscores the need for social media usage by different agents of evangelization. The Local Ordinary stressed that the rise of digital technologies means that the use of social media cannot be overlooked. He pointed out that “Evangelii Nuntiandi,” paragraph 45, encourages agents of evangelization to utilize social media in spreading the Gospel.
Furthermore, he explained that the Church has been leveraging various platforms—including radio, television, Facebook, YouTube, WhatsApp, TikTok, and other channels—to ensure the widespread dissemination of the Gospel according to the teachings of the Church, ensuring that the complete and unaltered truth is communicated.
Participants were cautioned about the dangers and challenges associated with social media use. He reiterated the necessity of preserving individuals’ privacy and condemned the use of social media for defamation of character.
Among other responsibilities, the commission is tasked with educating and training Christians on the proper use of social media and supporting the establishment of Catholic radio and television outlets.
