UCA News
Contribute

Redemptorists urge social media responsibility

Balance rights to free expression with civility, Philippine shrine operators say
Redemptorists urge social media responsibility
Published: March 08, 2016 06:40 AM GMT
Updated: March 08, 2016 06:40 AM GMT

Days after finding itself the target of an online smear campaign, the Redemptorist-run National Shrine of Our Mother of Perpetual Help in Baclaran has appealed to netizens worldwide to be responsible users of social media even as they exercise their right to free expression.

"We are in no way questioning the grace of God giving the opportunity for us all to broadcast our opinions and observations, but may we be reminded not leave out our sense of social responsibility," shrine spokespersons said in an open letter through their Social Mission Team.

The shrine also grabbed the opportunity to defend Jenny Arteta whose viral update on March 1 about an unverified incident unfavorable to its image sparked a Facebook "word war," which took on a life of its own and backfired on her.

"We urge the public to stop sentiments of invectiveness on Ms. Jenny as she is our sister and belongs to the household of God," it added.

As a sign of goodwill, Arteta visited the national shrine March 5 to dialogue with its representatives as well as to express contrition for the mishap.

Help UCA News to be independent
Dear reader,
Lent is the season during which catechumens make their final preparations to be welcomed into the Church.
Each year during Lent, UCA News presents the stories of people who will join the Church in proclaiming that Jesus Christ is their Lord. The stories of how women and men who will be baptized came to believe in Christ are inspirations for all of us as we prepare to celebrate the Church's chief feast.
Help us with your donations to bring such stories of faith that make a difference in the Church and society.
A small contribution of US$5 will support us continue our mission…
William J. Grimm
Publisher
UCA News
Asian Bishops
Latest News
UCA News Catholic Dioceses in Asia
UCA News Catholic Dioceses in Asia
UCA News Catholic Dioceses in Asia