Expressing Our Faith 'Cyberstyle'

By Msgr. Robert Aucoin
HERALD Columnist
(From the issue of 2/21/02)

For centuries, spiritual authors have recommended to many the practices of journalizing or writing down one’s thoughts and reflections. The technique of journalizing has its own rules and procedures to follow. I mention this only to refer to a rather modern means that some have chosen to express to themselves, to God and ultimately to others, their spiritual journeys. The newer means is, of course, the Internet.

The process of writing one’s spiritual thoughts forces the writer to take account of what really needs to be said and how to say it in such a way that a reader will be able to experience some level of participation in that journey. In addition, in composing, the writer is required to articulate what he really believes. In other words, does the God of one’s spiritual journey match the God who revealed Himself in Scripture and Tradition? Sometimes our personal thoughts could innocently lead us away from defined theological beliefs. That does not mean that we are bad. It does mean that we must always check our spiritual journey and thoughts with the reality of who God really is, not as we imagine Him. A spiritual director can be an invaluable guide in this spiritual passage.

Some people share their spiritual journey through a Web site. I admire these people because their intent is definitely to spread the good news of Jesus Christ and His Church through their own perspective. Sometimes, as they write, they may be less than precise in their theological expressions. Some people of good will may err in expressing themselves due to a lack of theological training, not because they purposely intend to make mistakes.

Thus, in looking at Web sites that are the work of private individuals, one must focus on what the author is conveying out of good faith. "Join My Journey" at http://homepage.mac.com/ojoachim3/DailyMeds.html is a wonderful example of a dedicated Catholic sharing faith with others. On these pages, the author offers brief meditations on the liturgical Scripture readings of each day. They are poignant at the same time. Besides the daily reflections, there is a good list of links to other webs with pertinent Catholic information. For example, there is a pro-life "Infonet" filled with relevant information on the crusade to create respect for life in our country and in the world. Complementing this information is also a link to "Lifesite Daily News."

CyberCatholic at http://www.northnet.org/cybercatholic/ is also the work of a person of faith wishing to share some faith experiences with others. This author provides "food for the journey" with reflections, prayer and seeds for growth. Here I found a "Confirmation Renewal Prayer" that could be copied and passed on to teenage children. Jacques Maritain, a famous philosopher, is quoted saying, "In my view, God educates us through our deceptions and mistakes, in order to make us understand at last that we ought to believe only in Him, and not in our own abilities." There are also many teachings, meditations and comments addressed especially to those involved with the charismatic renewal.

If you have a fast connection to the Internet, go to http://168.143.173.209/IWGnet.swf. This rather strange address will present an audio and visual reflection of an "interview with God." The video shots, mostly of nature, are stunning. The questions and "answers" will certainly provide many moments of quiet prayer. The author of these pages should be commended.

These are just a few examples of what some dedicated individuals can accomplish on the Internet for the benefit of all. We thank them for giving all of us food for thought.

Msgr. Aucoin is a priest of the Diocese of Ogdensburg, N.Y., and rector of Wadhams Hall Seminary–College in Ogdensburg.

Copyright ©2002 Arlington Catholic Herald.  All rights reserved.