For approximately two days participating in the ongoing formation activity for young priests and prospective young priests held at Wisma Gonzalo, there were many things that I personally gained. All the new things that I gained during the training were not stated comprehensively. However, there were several points that were most important and beneficial for me and also my fellow brothers and the young priests who participated in this activity.
First, this is the first experience of directly participating in ongoing formation activities. I would like to express my gratitude to the diocese, in this case the chairman of Unio, who has given me the opportunity to be involved in it. I would also like to express my gratitude to Mr. Frans who has introduced, explained and shared many materials and practices for communicating digitally which are very beneficial for us as prospective leaders and leaders of the congregation.
Second, this communication training in the digital era provides a very valuable and inspiring experience. There is no useless material. Everything is very important and has relevance that fits my life as a prospective imam and later becomes an imam among the people. I feel inspired by the many materials, information and new skills obtained from the speakers. For me, this training opened my eyes to the importance of effective communication in reaching the people, especially the younger generation who are more familiar with technology. The provision of materials, interactive discussions and practical exercises in communicating digitally allowed me to practice how to prepare myself as a public figure and young imam in the future. Third, communicating in front of the public and the masses are two different contexts. As leaders and servants of the people, imams and prospective imams are required to master the right methods and techniques. During college and even now, I realized that the methods and techniques used to deliver sermons or speeches are still very far apart. In fact, often not using the right method. However, in this training, I was touched and paid great attention and was determined to learn to use the right method to deliver sermons for every level of audience. There are 5 types of methods that are most suitable for priests and prospective priests in delivering sermons or speeches, namely: the use of the cause-effect method, the problem solving method, the chronology method, the story/narration method and the profit and loss method. These five methods, after being practiced in training, are very helpful for every priest in preparing any material before being presented or preached.
Fourth, communication in the digital era is an important part of our ministry both as prospective priests and young priests. The use of technology as a medium of preaching is very suitable for today’s young generation. As young priests and prospective young priests, this is a relevant opportunity to utilize technology to spread messages of love and hope, as well as to build closer relationships with the congregation. Don’t hesitate to continue learning and adapting to the changing times. With the right skills, we can be a bridge between the church and society. Remember that good communication is not just about conveying information, but also about listening and understanding the needs of the congregation.
Fifth, one of the most striking things about this training is how we use words to build bridges, not walls. In an interactive session, participants were invited to practice writing and presenting content that is not only informative but also interesting. The use of appropriate language, appropriate tone, and clear delivery are the keys to attracting the attention of an audience that is often busy with various distractions in cyberspace.
Sixth, the digital era not only brings convenience, but also new challenges in communication. As prospective imams and imams who have served among the people and society, there is a lot of information that can spread quickly, but so is misinformation. This training teaches us to be responsible communicators, filter information carefully, and disseminate accurate content. With this approach, we not only contribute to healthy discussions, but also build a good reputation in the eyes of the audience.
In closing, one of my recommendations for this training is that I want to invite young imams and prospective young imams to continue to explore the potential of communication in the digital era with. Every interaction is an opportunity to learn and grow. Be a young imam who is able to use the media to listen with empathy, speak wisely, and deliver the message with love. In every message we share with the audience, remember that there is a soul that we need to touch and guide. We are called to be a bridge between the church and society, and with the right communication skills, we can bring hope and revival to many people. May this experience be the beginning of our more meaningful journey in ministry. Never hesitate and be afraid to start something new. (Benny Fasak – Major II STFX Poka)
