In a world where digital communication and interaction is taking hold as the printing press had done in the 15th century, it is necessary to establish positive Christian messages that will be spread through these new means—new media. This is a main focus of Pope Benedict XVI in his messages on evangelization by the use of new media and a theme consistent within and a drive behind the new evangelization.
This new media consists in applications like online video, audio, web interaction, and social networking. This is done either in the home, or more increasingly, in mobile technologies. The Encounter with God’s program in like manner wishes to establish a connection with this new media and more importantly a relationship with young men looking for meaning who use these technologies.
By developing and maintaining an interactive web experience (website, mobile application, online social networking) we can help spread the message and awareness of God’s call for young men to serve him as priests, to provide continuing education, and diverse social interaction with those who have already heard and responded to that call.
This web experience could be called an online Encounter With God’s Call. We would hope to accomplish these three things: 1. Develop a website dedicated to promoting the Encounter weekend, and more broadly priestly vocations; 2. Provide online support for those seeking questions about the priesthood and discernment; and 3. Provide the opportunity for those whom the weekend was or is difficult to attend, an “online” interactive experience that creates that digital encounter: they see and hear the same talks, have live interactive chat, and establish a community of discerners that they can find support and encouragement.