For the new generations, digital is not an addition but an environment. Social networks, platforms, chats and online video games are places of contact, expression and discussion where they experience friendship, recognition and self-discovery.
At stake is not only the time in front of a screen, but the way in which they learn to look at themselves, to talk about themselves, to perceive themselves, to relate.
One of the most evident elements of digital culture is visibility: “I exist if I am seen.” Likes, views, followers are a measure of value, and public recognition risks turning into addiction. The image of oneself is compared with others, often filtered, constructed, idealized. The pressure to show oneself “up to par” generates anxiety, inadequacy, fear of exclusion. It is not uncommon that behind a constant connection there is a profound loneliness: in contact with many, not always in relationship with someone; we communicate a lot without feeling understood. This question is human and spiritual at the same time: what governs my time and who guides my choices?
The response must not only be normative or prohibitive, on the contrary, competent and dialogic accompaniment is required. First, critical media education that addresses emotional and relational dynamics. Secondly, offer “speaking spaces” where many live intense digital experiences with distant adults, unable to listen without judging. A third aspect it concerns the testimony of the latter who also educate with their own style online. On a pastoral level the challenge is to help move from image to face, from visibility to truth. Can the announcement of a God who calls by name, looks at the heart, loves beyond performance, become an antidote to the logic of consensus and open the heart to spaces of creativity, social commitment, sharing? Another challenge therefore arises: from the consumption of digital contents to their community creation to reflect on social media and learn to inhabit them together with balance.; consequently oratories, parishes, Catholic schools, associations and movements as production laboratories.
It’s not about turning young people into “religious influencers”, but to offer spaces in which digital creativity is oriented towards the common good by enhancing what already exists.
When a content arises from discussion, discernment, group work, it is no longer the expression of an “I” in search of visibility, but of an “us” that gives meaning to reality.
The network, from a personal stage, is transformed into a shared square, and communication into a responsible service. This helps to overcome digital loneliness, restores the sense of belonging, reduces performance anxiety, being part of a community that supports, corrects, encourages and enhances everyone’s talents in the service of a larger project and a mission
