The glue of community

by Editor · March 13, 2002

IT is no accident that the Eucharist is often referred to as “Communion,” for the communal sharing of Christ’s body and blood is an outward sign of our oneness as Catholics, an expression of community.

This, however, does not mean that Southern African Catholics in fact do aggregate as a living community, spanning parishes and dioceses across the country. That is why the Catholic media are so crucial in helping to build and strengthen the community of the Catholic faithful
Catholics in Southern Africa have for almost 82 years had access to a weekly newspaper which keeps them informed of what is happening on all levels of the Church. In this way, The Southern Cross has become a glue that holds together the geographically and socially dispersed Catholic community in our region. (It is, incidentally, the only national Christian weekly newspaper in South Africa)
As of May 1, that glue will be invigorated by the arrival of Radio Veritas as a permanent Catholic broadcaster.

It has been a long and complex battle to get Radio Veritas on air. To a large extent, the problems have resided with the broadcasting authorities, who have invariably dismissed Radio Veritas’ applications for an FM frequency on the absurd grounds that the Catholic community must be geographically defined. This bizarre logic has the backing of the law – one that is in evident need of review.

Nevertheless, at long last Radio Veritas – under the expert guidance of Fr Emil Blaser OP and Pat Rogers – will take to the air on shortwave band in May.

Without a doubt, the Catholic press and Catholic radio will complement one another in advancing the media apostolate.

The Southern Cross is looking forward to collaborating with Radio Veritas. As a sign of such cooperation, the newspaper and the radio station will jointly host a pilgrimage to France, Italy and Turkey in October this year under the spiritual directorship of Fr Blaser.

The Church needs a strong Catholic community characterised by solidarity. Solidly supported, the Catholic media can give a powerful impetus to building and maintaining this community.