By Burnett Munthali
The Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) Church in Malawi has underscored the critical role played by church-based communication officers in advancing the gospel and ensuring that congregants are well-informed on crucial church matters. This was highlighted during a recent communicators’ conference held in Lilongwe, where Grace Mazunda, the Communications Director of the Central Malawi Conference of the church, addressed the importance of communication within the church.
Mazunda explained that church communicators are indispensable in broadening the reach and influence of the SDA Church, especially in today’s digital age where information is largely disseminated through social media. She emphasized that social media platforms have become vital tools in spreading the church’s message to a wider audience, allowing the gospel to reach people far beyond the walls of the church. Through well-curated content and engaging communication strategies, church communicators help bring together members of the church community, provide updates on events, and promote initiatives that align with the church’s mission.
The role of communication officers has grown significantly, particularly with the increasing use of digital platforms. Mazunda noted that the capacity to communicate effectively on such platforms is crucial not only for spreading spiritual messages but also for addressing issues that affect congregants’ lives. Whether it is for organizing church events, sharing sermons, or promoting religious education, church communicators play a central role in the functioning and growth of the SDA Church.
During the conference, the discussions also touched on the responsibilities and ethical considerations that come with communication work, especially in the age of information overload. While the benefits of social media were acknowledged, it was equally important to ensure that the messages shared align with the core principles and values of the church. Mazunda urged communicators to maintain integrity, ensuring that all shared content is truthful, uplifting, and in line with the teachings of the SDA Church.
However, the conference also addressed concerns regarding the regulation of communication, especially in light of the newly enacted data protection laws in Malawi. Daud Suleman, the Director General of the Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA), delivered a cautionary note to the church’s communication officers, reminding them of the importance of adhering to the provisions of the recently passed Data Protection Act. This law, which seeks to protect individuals’ privacy and regulate the handling of personal data, has significant implications for all entities, including religious organizations, that collect, store, or share data.
Suleman stressed that communication officers within the SDA Church must ensure that all personal data gathered through digital platforms or church databases is handled with the utmost care and in compliance with the law. With the church increasingly relying on social media, websites, and other digital means to engage with its members, it becomes essential that the church ensures transparency, safeguards privacy, and adheres to best practices when collecting or using data from its congregation. He urged the communicators to stay informed about the data protection policies and guidelines to avoid any legal or ethical issues.
In his address, Suleman highlighted the role of regulatory authorities in overseeing the proper use of communication platforms. He noted that while the church is an important institution that contributes positively to society, it must also be vigilant in respecting the rights of its members, particularly in the context of data protection and digital communication.
The conference was an opportunity for church communicators to not only reflect on their vital role in the growth of the SDA Church but also to engage with current challenges and legal requirements in the digital space. It was a reminder of the evolving nature of communication in religious settings and the need for church communicators to adapt to these changes while upholding ethical standards.
As the SDA Church continues to expand its reach, the role of church-based communication officers will remain central to its mission. The church is committed to ensuring that its message reaches as many people as possible, particularly through social media, while being mindful of the ethical and legal implications of digital communication. Through thoughtful and responsible communication, church communicators will continue to serve as a vital link between the church and its community, ensuring that the gospel is spread far and wide, and that congregants are kept informed and engaged.
