Digital distractions could erode silence needed for prayer, Nigerian Catholic bishop warns

Anselm Umoren, auxiliary bishop of the Archdiocese of Abuja, warned that digital distractions risk undermining the silence required for prayer and spiritual discernment. Speaking to ACI Africa during the seventh annual general assembly of the Archdiocese of Abuja, the bishop urged Christians to resist the constant demands of social media, notifications, and online interactions.

Bishop Umoren noted that while digital technology offers benefits, it should not displace a person's relationship with God, sacramental life, or authentic human connections. He cautioned that the digital environment encourages constant communication at the expense of contemplation, noting that social media platforms often pressure users to react immediately to trending topics and share content.

The assembly addressed the theme of Christian faith and evolving communication technology. Bishop Umoren reminded listeners that there is a time for silence and a time to speak, warning that the digital revolution has radically changed how people think and communicate.