Keeping up with the conclave: TikTok brings Gen Z closer to the Catholic Church
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While blending centuries-old rituals with cheeky or witty online humour is seen by some as creative commentary, others – particularly within Catholic circles – are raising ethical questions about making light of revered traditions. Experts say the phenomenon reflects Gen Z’s instinct to remix serious world events into shared online moments, often blurring the line between respect and satire.
for many Gen Z Catholics and even curious outsiders, the online buzz has become a gateway into real conversations about the future of the Church. What started as jokes about the cardinals’ robes turned into genuine discourse on the theological and political leanings of papal contenders, and what that would mean to Catholics in the modern age.
Humour helps Gen Z process complex issues, he said. “Making jokes is a release of tension. It’s not an attack on the sacred or the elimination of the sanctity of the Church. Rather, it’s a way of participating in these conversations”.
Sometimes, a meme or even TikTok videos can be great social commentaries about certain aspects of an event. This could lead to further reflection, evaluation and, hopefully, action
some videos branded the papabili like beauty pageant contestants
the Church has long used art – from stained glass windows in churches to famous paintings depicting biblical scenes – to bring its message to believers.
“Now, it’s mediated by technology like TikTok, but the same dynamics are at play
For qns on humour and the impact or role of technology in religion....
Qns:
1. 'Humour is essential for an individual’s well-being.’ Discuss. (Cam. 2024)
2. Can humour ever be serious? (Cam. 2012)
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