By: Gloria Abutu
Nigerians have been urged to rekindle their dedication to fostering genuine human communication in an era dominated by technological advancements.
The Catholic Bishop of Yola Diocese, Most Reverend Stephen Dami Mamza made the call in a sermon at the Holy Mass to commemorate the 58th World Communication Sunday at Saint Augustine’s Catholic Church, Bekaji Yola.
Bishop Dami Mamza emphasized the pivotal role of communication in strengthening bonds within the Christian community and beyond.
Speaking on the theme of this year’s World Communications Day, “Artificial Intelligence and the Wisdom of the Heart: Towards a Fully Human Communication”, the cleric while reflecting on the profound nature of human communication, acknowledged the benefits of technological innovations in enhancing connectivity but cautioned against overlooking the essence of humanity in the process.
He emphasized the importance of maintaining a focus on the heart, the sacred space where individuals encounter their Creator.
According to the Bishop, ‘We are called to pray and pay attention to the heart. The heart is the place of freedom and decision making. It symbolizes integrity and unity.
It is the inward place for an encounter with our creator.”
Addressing the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the church, the Catholic Bishop noted its potential to aid activities and adapt to the evolving needs of communities.
“Artificial intelligence offers numerous advantages and opportunities to the church to enhance communication, engage the community and fulfil its mission,” said Bishop Dami Mamza.
“By leveraging the power of AI technologies, the church can adapt the different means of communication and make a positive impact in the life of its members,” he added.
However, he underscored the irreplaceable value of human communication, highlighting qualities such as responsiveness, connection, understanding, emotions, and sympathy that AI lacks.
Moreover, Bishop Dami Mamza highlighted the unique challenges faced by the deaf community in communication and stressed the importance of inclusivity and solidarity in addressing their needs.
He called upon Christians to stand firm against divisive tendencies and strive for unity rooted in the teachings of Christ.
Deputy Governor of Adamawa state Professor Kaletapwa Farauta who was in attendance, emphasized that communication lies at the heart of relationships and cannot be replaced by technological advancements.
“Relationships have been broken because individuals, communities did not communicate often. And today, our father in the Lord made it clear that despite all the technology we have round about us, it cannot take the place of human communication,” she noted.
She urged the media to prioritize truthfulness, unity, and the promotion of peace and development in their reporting.
Furthermore, Prof. Farauta called upon Christian politicians and public office holders to serve as catalysts for unity within the church and society, emphasizing the importance of leading by example in fostering harmony and understanding.
Media professionals and the Catholic deaf community in the state were thereafter hosted to a lunch with the Bishop.
President of the Catholic Media Practitioners of Nigeria, CAMPAN Mr.Isinga Innocent appreciated the Bishop as well as the Director of Communications, Catholic Diocese of Yola, Reverend Father Moses Ma’aji for their unwavering support of the programmes of the association.
He expressed satisfaction with the participation of journalists, whose presence significantly contributed to the success of the 2024 World Communications Week celebration.
