Faith and technology can complement each other

Mar 27, 2024

By Jacklin Victor
Parents, students and catechism teachers of the Taiping Catholic Church (TCC) came together for a talk presented by Deacon Clement Samuel. This event, held on March 17, marked the debut of such talks at TCC, setting a precedent for future sessions that Deacon Samuel will oversee in other parishes throughout the Penang diocese.

The discussion spanned several pertinent topics such as the advantages and disadvantages of using mobile phones; the significance of students attending Mass every Sunday and the importance of student involvement in church services.

The session facilitated an interactive dialogue, encouraging open conversation between parents and students. A notable point of discussion was the perspective shift among parents regarding the use of smartphones. They acknowledged learning about the positive aspects of smartphone usage, such as utilising the device for morning prayer sessions, listening to Catholic hymns, and exploring educational content beyond the catechism textbooks. The session highlighted the necessity for parents to manage their children’s screen time effectively, guiding them to prioritise God in their lives and fostering spiritual closeness within the family.

Students were particularly moved by Deacon Samuel’s insights into the importance of attending Mass, understanding it as a sacred act that commemorates Jesus’ death and resurrection through the Eucharistic celebration, where Jesus’ presence is profoundly acknowledged in the sharing of bread and wine.

The deacon also showcased the range of activities organised by the Parish Youth ministry, emphasising how participation in parish initiatives not only furthers the Church’s mission to aid the less fortunate but also strengthens the communal bond and faith journey among the youth.

The session concluded with Deacon Samuel introducing a new resource for parents titled As For Me & My House authored by Emmanuel Tan, the national coordinator for the Malaysian Catechetical Commission, providing a valuable guide for nurturing faith within families.