C M Paul
In his latest book, ‘Evangelization in the New Areopagus’, Fr. Michael Makri, the Director of the Don Bosco Media Network (DBMN), presents a compelling and timely exploration of the Church’s mission in the digital age. This concise yet profound work serves as a vital guide for clergy, religious, and laypeople seeking to effectively share the Gospel in an increasingly interconnected world. The central thesis is a powerful call to action: the Church must not only embrace but also master the digital realm, transforming it from a space of passive consumption into a vibrant “new Areopagus” for missionary activity, particularly in India and North East India.
A Timely and Culturally Relevant Message: Makri addresses a critical challenge facing the Church today—how to connect with a generation that lives and breathes in the digital world. His insight that platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp are the “primary arenas” where young Indians, especially in the North East, form their worldviews is a foundational truth the Church can no longer afford to ignore. This specific focus on the cultural and social landscape of the region makes his arguments particularly resonant and actionable.
Expertise Rooted in Theology and Practice: As noted by Fr. Barnes L. Mawrie sdb in the foreword, Fr. Makri is a “well-qualified Salesian priest in the field of social communication.” This expertise is evident in his ability to beautifully and convincingly articulate the importance of modern media. He draws inspiration from the Church’s teachings—notably Pope St. John Paul II’s call for a “new Areopagus”—and applies them with prudence to the digital sphere, including the rising influence of Artificial Intelligence. This approach ensures the book is both theologically sound and practically grounded.
Grounded in Humility and Authenticity: Unlike superficial guides to social media, Makri’s approach is deeply spiritual and pastoral. He emphasizes that digital evangelization is not about gaining followers or going viral, but a spiritual act requiring “respect, humility, and authenticity.” The book’s greatest strength lies in this focus on a “spiritually rooted and creative engagement” that fosters “genuine encounters with Christ.” It is a powerful reminder that while the medium has changed, the core mission of encountering people where they are remains the same.
Practical and Actionable Guidance: Makri provides concrete recommendations for adapting to this new landscape. He advocates for integrating “social media skills into priestly and religious formation,” a progressive idea that acknowledges the changing needs of ministry. The book encourages the use of “storytelling, testimonies, and culturally relevant content” as powerful tools for evangelization. Crucially, he stresses the need to balance an online presence with the “sacraments and personal pastoral care,” reminding readers that the digital world can never replace the physical community of the Church.
A Vision for a Joyful and Courageous Mission: Makri’s work acknowledges the challenges of the digital space, such as polarization and inauthenticity, and urges believers to navigate them with “missionary courage.” Ultimately, ‘Evangelization in the New Areopagus’ is a book about missionary zeal. Its call for an “authentic, joyful, and respectful digital evangelization” is a powerful message that aligns perfectly with the Church’s timeless mission to proclaim Christ’s love universally.
Conclusion
Fr. Michael Makri’s ‘Evangelization in the New Areopagus’ is an essential read for anyone invested in the future of the Church in India and beyond. Drawing on his extensive background as a Salesian priest and his experience as the creator of multiple youth apps and a prolific author, he provides a hopeful and courageous vision for ministry. By reframing the internet as a space for evangelization—a new Areopagus—Makri offers a clear theological framework and practical guidance. This short but impactful book is a much-needed contribution to the conversation on digital ministry, and its insights will undoubtedly inspire and equip countless individuals to become authentic witnesses of Christ in the online world.