On Tuesday 20th March 2012, the Archbishop’s Seminary organized a Think-Tank, for seminarians to discover the way in which the priesthood is looked upon by journalists, who are considered to be in touch with the views embraced by society. The journalists expressed various opinions as to how they feel the priest should communicate effectively, using language that is easily understood in a world which is under the widespread influence of different means of social communication.
On the invitation of the Communications Office, the journalists who attended this activity were: Keith Demicoli (PBS), Kurt Sansone (Allied Newspapers), Marion Zammit (Media.link Communications), Anthony David Gatt (One Television) and Josianne Camilleri (RTK).
The activity began with a moment of prayer led by a seminarian. Following this, Fr Jimmy Bonnici, the Rector of the Seminary, spoke about the principles on which the seven years of a seminarian’s formation are based. The journalists expressed their opinion with respect to several themes which pertain to the priesthood, among them the way in which the priest should establish strong contacts with people who work in the media; the fact that the priest, through his words and actions, is seen to represent the Church; the inevitability of his presence in the field of social media communications; his opinion in moral debates and other issues at national level; and the manner in which the Church’s internal fora can serve as a means for people to be informed, as well as to guide them in the formation of their conscience. A discussion ensued during which the seminarians and the journalists participated actively.
Similar Think-Tanks are organized annually by the Major Seminary with representatives of various sectors of society. Such meetings serve as a means of formation for the seminarians.
Agħfas fuq ir-ritratt biex tkabbar. Ritratti: Uffiċċju Komunikazzjoni, Kurja