The Digital Environment as a Space of the Evangelization Activity: New Dimension of the Obligations Arising from the Prescripts of can. 822 CIC

Contemporary papal enunciations are characterized by the assertive―active and optimistic, yet risk-conscious and non-critical―ecclesial approach to the opportunities/challenges of the “digital age.” If we follow these indications, imbued with the concern for the effectiveness of the evangelizing mission in the new socio-(technological-)cultural realities/contexts, and at the same time bear in mind the rule that the Church’s legal practice must take into account the current conditions of human existence—it becomes clear that this authoritatively outlined horizon of the “signs of the times” poses a challenge to theological sciences, including the canonical doctrine. As far as the latter is concerned, leaving aside the often urgent need for legislative changes/adjustments (given the peculiarities of the various regions of the world—above all at the level of particular law), the role of experts in presenting a renewed, adequate hic et nunc interpretation of certain nodal canons of the Code of Canon Law remains invaluable. We may argue that such include the prescripts of can. 822. Hence, this article attempts a two-stage delimitation of the problem meritum—according to the research steps announced in the title: (1) The digital environment as an indispensable space of the evangelization activity; (2) The new dimension of the obligations of the Church’s Pastors imposed by the prescripts of can. 822 §§ 1–3.