Tawau parish marks 50th WCD with new line up of SOCCOM officers

TAWAU – Holy Trinity Parish here marked World Communication Day with a new line up of Social Communication Committee office bearers. This year, World Communications Day entered its 50th year with the theme ‘Communication and Mercy : A Fruitful Encounter.’

World Communications Day fell on 8 May 2016. Members of Holy Trinity Parish Social Communication Ministry (SOCCOM) participated as commentator, readers, collectors and offertory during the Eucharistic Celebration on  May 7  during the Sunset Mass.

SOCCOM responded to the message of the Holy Father on World Communications Day, who “invites the Church to practise mercy as the distinctive trait of all that she is and does, including the field of communication.”  In it the pontiff urges the Church “to communicate with everyone, without exception. In a particular way, the Church’s words and actions are all meant to convey mercy.”

In line with it, they raised awareness on the importance and functions of social media, especially in spreading the Good News, which is the task of every baptised Catholic.

Besides reflecting on the Solemnity of the Ascension, main celebrant Msgr Nicholas Ong also reflected on social media communications with the faithful, “Understand and maximise the privilege on the use of modern day communications facility,” he told them.

He added, “You must know what to communicate, especially in sharing the beauty of God’s messages, God’s salvation and His mercy. These could be achieved through articles, photos and videos from which those who watch or read will be able to reflect.”

The new Parish SOCCOM line-up for the two-year term of 2016- 2018 was formalised on Apr 10. They pledged to continue and enhance the spirit of teamwork among members in serving the Church with joy and commitment.

A video clip on Social Media and Communications was presented in all the three Masses over the weekend to promote understanding and awareness of the power of the media/social communications affecting their life.

SOCCOM was established in Holy Trinity Parish in 2009.  It has been actively involved in serving the Church with their motto “Serve from the heart.” Many have benefited from their service. Members could be seen taking photographs, recording videos and doing coverage during church events. – Julita Kantod