African bishop cautions Catholic journalists against compromising standards
Luanda, Angola, Dec 12, 2024 / 07:00 am (CNA).
Catholic journalists in Angola received from one of the country’s leading bishops an impassioned charge about their vocation that transcends borders.
Speaking during a thanksgiving Mass for the 70th anniversary of Radio Ecclesia, Angola’s Catholic Radio, Bishop António Francisco Jaca of the country’s Diocese of Benguela emphasized the need for Catholic journalists to adhere to their profession’s code of ethics.
“A Catholic journalist cannot be allied with the powerful of this world. You must not be bought; you must not lose your freedom. Journalism is a vocation that requires commitment, dedication, the ability to give, and sacrifice,” Jaca said during the Dec. 8 Eucharistic celebration at the Sacred Heart of Jesus Major Seminary Chapel in the Archdiocese of Luanda.
Jaca called upon Catholic journalists to act as “heralds of truth,” fostering integrity in their journalism practice and advocating for justice.
“Your commitment to truth is the key for society to trust in the future,” said Jaca, who is also president of the Episcopal Commission for Social Communication and Culture of the Bishops’ Conference of Angola and São Tomé and Príncipe (CEAST).
‘Remain impartial and pluralistic’
He went on to describe Catholic journalism as a “tool to promote justice, truth, and peace” and encouraged Catholic journalists to “remain impartial and pluralistic” in their reporting, resisting manipulation and external influences.
“Catholic journalism must always be impartial and plural, free from the interference of powers that seek to distort the truth. Investigate deeply, listen to all sides, and respect the diversity of voices,” Jaca said.
He urged Catholic journalists to uphold ethical principles in reporting, saying: “You must not use your power to extort, defame, or manipulate. Truth must be your compass as we build a more just and fraternal society. Avoid selfishness and the allure of power, and instead focus on serving the common good.”
Dual role of ‘communicators and evangelizers’
Reflecting on Radio Ecclesia’s 70th anniversary, the Angolan Catholic Church leader emphasized the dual role of Catholic journalists as “communicators and evangelizers.”
The mission of Catholic journalists extends beyond informing the public to include the proclamation of the good news of hope, justice, and peace, he said.
“The journalist must be the voice of the voiceless, advocating for the marginalized and those excluded from public discourse. Your work should sow hope and instill confidence in a better future, even in difficult times,” Jaca said.
Called to be ‘beacons of clarity’
He cautioned against misinformation and propaganda, and called upon Catholic journalists to be “beacons of clarity and impartiality.”
“In a world where information can be misused for selfish purposes, journalists must act as forces of change, committed to truth and justice in its purest form,” Jaca said.
The Angolan Catholic bishop, who has been at the helm of the Benguela Diocese since June 2018 following his transfer from Angola’s Diocese of Caxito, where he started his episcopal ministry in July 2007, also reminded Catholic journalists to foster public interest and human dignity.
“The Catholic journalist’s work must be guided by a deep sense of vocation and dedication, prioritizing the collective good over personal interests. This is a form of priesthood in the field of journalism,” Jaca concluded.
This story was first published by ACI Africa, CNA’s news partner in Africa, and has been adapted by CNA.
Source: https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/260987/african-bishop-cautions-catholic-journalists-against-compromising-standards
Anyone can join.
Anyone can contribute.
Anyone can become informed about their world.
"United We Stand" Click Here To Create Your Personal Citizen Journalist Account Today, Be Sure To Invite Your Friends.
Before It’s News® is a community of individuals who report on what’s going on around them, from all around the world. Anyone can join. Anyone can contribute. Anyone can become informed about their world. "United We Stand" Click Here To Create Your Personal Citizen Journalist Account Today, Be Sure To Invite Your Friends.
LION'S MANE PRODUCT
Try Our Lion’s Mane WHOLE MIND Nootropic Blend 60 Capsules
Mushrooms are having a moment. One fabulous fungus in particular, lion’s mane, may help improve memory, depression and anxiety symptoms. They are also an excellent source of nutrients that show promise as a therapy for dementia, and other neurodegenerative diseases. If you’re living with anxiety or depression, you may be curious about all the therapy options out there — including the natural ones.Our Lion’s Mane WHOLE MIND Nootropic Blend has been formulated to utilize the potency of Lion’s mane but also include the benefits of four other Highly Beneficial Mushrooms. Synergistically, they work together to Build your health through improving cognitive function and immunity regardless of your age. Our Nootropic not only improves your Cognitive Function and Activates your Immune System, but it benefits growth of Essential Gut Flora, further enhancing your Vitality.
Our Formula includes: Lion’s Mane Mushrooms which Increase Brain Power through nerve growth, lessen anxiety, reduce depression, and improve concentration. Its an excellent adaptogen, promotes sleep and improves immunity. Shiitake Mushrooms which Fight cancer cells and infectious disease, boost the immune system, promotes brain function, and serves as a source of B vitamins. Maitake Mushrooms which regulate blood sugar levels of diabetics, reduce hypertension and boosts the immune system. Reishi Mushrooms which Fight inflammation, liver disease, fatigue, tumor growth and cancer. They Improve skin disorders and soothes digestive problems, stomach ulcers and leaky gut syndrome. Chaga Mushrooms which have anti-aging effects, boost immune function, improve stamina and athletic performance, even act as a natural aphrodisiac, fighting diabetes and improving liver function. Try Our Lion’s Mane WHOLE MIND Nootropic Blend 60 Capsules Today. Be 100% Satisfied or Receive a Full Money Back Guarantee. Order Yours Today by Following This Link.