Intrinsically connected with the question of language is that of the means of communication. One of the most effective and pervasive means is the mass media. "The very evangelization of modern culture depends to a great extent on the influence of the media". 120RM 37. While not repeating what has already been said of the mass media elsewhere, 121Cf. Part III, chap. 2. some indications are proposed as useful in inculturation: a greater appreciation of the media for their specific communication quality, while realizing the importance of balancing the language of image and that of word; the safeguarding of the genuine religious meaning of selected forms of expression; the promotion of critical maturity among audiences, stimulating them to a deep, personal discernment of what has been received from the media; the production of catechetical aids congruent with this aim and the effective co-operation of all those engaged in pastoral initiatives. 122Cf. DCG (1971), 123.
The catechism and, above all, the Catechism of the Catholic Church is central to the process of inculturation, and it must be used so as to evince a "vast range of services... which aim at inculturation, which, to be effective, must never cease to be true". 123John Paul II, to the members of COINCAT l.c. The Catechism of the Catholic Church expressly calls for the preparation of appropriate local catechisms, incorporating those adaptations required by difference of culture, age, spirituality and in the social and ecclesial situations of those to whom catechesis is addressed. 124CCC 24; John Paul II, Fidei Depositum 4. Anthropological environments and cultural tendencies
The Gospel seeks a catechesis which is open, generous and courageous in reaching people where they live, especially in encountering those nuclei in which the most elementary and fundamental cultural exchanges take place, such as the family, the school, the work environment and free time. It is important for catechesis to discern and penetrate these environments, as it is there that the major cultural tendencies have greater impact in creating and popularizing such models of life as urban life, migratory or tourist influxes, the world of youth and other socially relevant phenomena. Indeed "there are so many sectors to enlighten with the light of the Gospel", 125Cf. RM 37. especially those cultural areas denominated 'modern areopagi' like communications; civil campaigns for peace, development and liberation of peoples; the protection of creation; the defence of human rights, especially of minorities, women and children; scientific research and international relations.