In 1915, a unique vision emerged with the establishment of the Daughters of St Paul, a religious congregation dedicated to disseminating the Gospel through various forms of communication. This endeavor has evolved over more than a century, adapting to technological advances, which now include digital media and social networks, while maintaining its core mission.
The foundation of this initiative is credited to Blessed Giacomo Alberione, whose inspiring vision was significantly shaped by his co-founder, Teresa Merlo, known as Sister Tecla. Born in 1894, Tecla was a pioneering figure who exemplified leadership and spirituality in an era when such roles for women were uncommon. As the first superior general of the congregation, she combined practicality with innovative foresight.
Innovative Storytelling: Scrolltelling
To highlight Sister Tecla’s contributions and the congregation’s mission, the Daughters of St Paul are introducing an engaging format known as “scrolltelling.” This interactive digital storytelling blends text, visuals, videos, and graphics into a seamless narrative designed to attract a younger audience and those less inclined towards traditional written formats.
Available in Mandarin, Korean, and Italian Sign Language, scrolltelling aims to reach a diverse international audience, including individuals with sensory disabilities. This accessibility is essential for ensuring inclusivity in the dissemination of their message.
Supporting Voices and Global Outreach
A video introducing the project can be accessed on the official Paoline website and through their social media channels. The initiative features insights from notable figures such as Sister Veronica Donatello, who represents the Italian Episcopal Conference’s pastoral care for people with disabilities, and Cardinal Giorgio Marengo, the Archbishop of Ulan Bator in Mongolia, who emphasizes the global mission of the Church.
Legacy of Sister Tecla Merlo
Sister Tecla Merlo passed away at the age of 70 in Albano Laziale, initially resting in the Verano Cemetery in Rome. Her remains were later moved to the crypt of the Basilica of Santa Maria Regina degli Apostoli alla Montagnola in Rome.
The Superior General of the Daughters of St Paul, Anna Caiazza, expressed, “We are truly happy to be able to ‘recount’ the story of our co-founder, the venerable Sister Tecla Merlo, to many brothers and sisters far away, in the Asian continent, and to all who will come to know her story, a story that ‘carries the perfume of the Gospel,’ through communication that uses the visual-gestural channel.”
A Timeless Narrative
The legacy of Sister Tecla and the Daughters of St Paul represents a narrative that transcends time, evolving from a simple printing house in the early twentieth century to a vibrant global presence on the web. Their ongoing commitment to touching the hearts of individuals through modern communication methods remains inspiring.
