Today, there is no denying that our world is marked by the digital age, a very complex phenomenon. Its profound impact, both positive and negative, on our daily lives has been confirmed by several studies. Digital technologies are playing an important role in enhancing our ability to communicate instantaneously with people all over the world. Where once access to information was difficult, today, with technologies we have access to an almost unlimited amount of information and resources online. The dominance of technology is such that it has created new employment opportunities and transformed the world of industry. In addition, various sectors such as health, education and agriculture have benefited enormously from digital technologies . [1]
While the benefits of the digital age are enormous, there is no shortage of voices warning about its risks. According to the United Nations (2020), technologies can threaten privacy, compromise security and fuel inequality[2] . Their excessive use can lead to social isolation and a decline in face-to-face interactions[3] . Studies highlight the growth of addiction to social networks and devices, especially among adolescents. It is already a reality that the digital world is a significant part of the identity and lifestyle of young people[4] and many adults. In the face of advances in technology, many, including Christians, are seeking inspiration and guidance, because new technologies, which are one of the expressions of digital culture, have had a profound impact on our faith communities and personal spiritual journeys .[5]
The development of artificial intelligence is increasingly influencing our experience of reality. Indeed, we are now seeing the development of machines that work and make decisions for us, that can learn and predict our behaviours, that respond to our questions and learn from our answers, or that use irony and speak with the voice and expressions of those who are no longer with us; of sensors that, placed on our skin, can measure our emotions[6] . Indeed, in the constantly evolving digital age, how useful are the teachings of St Vincent de Paul and how might we apply them?
Despite the development of new technologies, the teachings of St. Vincent de Paul have not lost their relevance. After 400 years of existence, these teachings continue to speak of love, divine providence, charity, service, fraternity, self-giving, mission and the gospel of life. These are themes that resist the evolution of time, themes that have not lost their meaning in the digital age. Indeed, St Vincent’s teachings are compatible with the digital age. In fact, the two need each other. St Vincent’s teachings can take advantage of technologies to amplify their impact and adapt to contemporary needs. In mobilising resources for the service of the poor, Vincentians in this digital age can use crowdfunding platforms to raise funds for charitable projects.
In addition, applications can be created that connect volunteers with service opportunities, making it easier for more people to participate in charitable activities. Courses and webinars on the life and teachings of St. Vincent can be offered to train people in the values of service and compassion. Artificial intelligence can be used to optimise the distribution of resources and improve charity. Social media is becoming a sure ally to continue spreading St. Vincent’s spirit of service and promoting charitable initiatives, raising awareness. Today more than ever, St. Vincent’s teachings need to be adapted and empowered in the digital age.
In the digital age, St. Vincent’s teachings can be applied to further humanise new technologies. That is, to put people at the centre of technological development, ensuring that these technologies improve the quality of life and promote general well-being.
Technologies can keep the legacy of St Vincent de Paul alive, adapting it to the needs and opportunities of the 21st century, allowing his spirit of charity and service to continue to inspire and transform lives. Focused on charity and compassion, St. Vincent’s teachings can help us rethink our presence in the digital age. Moreover, they can offer criteria for the digital age not to fall into vainglory, since vainglory can ruin the goodness of the digital age.
By Jean Rolex, CM
[1] UN (2020). Influence of digital technologies. Retrieved from https://www.un.org/es/un75/impact-digital-technologies.
[2] Ibid,
[3] Rubio, M. (2024). La era digital: impactos y consecuencias en nuestra sociedad https://quimica.diaonia.com/la-era-digital-impactos-y-consecuencias-en-nuestra-sociedad/
[4] Final Document (2018). Young people, faith and vocational discernment. Retrieved from http://secretariat.synod.va/.
[5] Dicastery for Communication (2023). Towards a full presence. Pastoral reflection on interaction in social networks. Retrieved from https://www.vatican.va/.
[6] Ibid.
