Roderick Evans Bartolome

Abstract:

Framed by Horton and Wohl’s (1956) concept of parasocial interaction and Lou’s (2022) elaboration of trans-parasocial relations, this study examines how Catholic priests who create digital content relate to their social media followers. Three focus group discussions (N = 20) with active Facebook and TikTok users in the Diocese of Malolos were recorded, transcribed, and inductively analysed until thematic saturation was achieved. Participants turn to priests’ posts for scriptural insight and a sense of connection, yet their engagement rarely extends beyond viewing, “liking,” sharing, and brief expressions of thanks. Priests seldom reply, solicit topics, or host real-time dialogue; thus, the collective reciprocity, co-creation, and mixed synchronicity that Lou describes as hallmarks of trans-parasociality are largely absent. The resulting ties remain parasocial: one-sided and deferential, even as priests adopt influencer cues such as eye-catching thumbnails, follower milestones, and donation links.

Keywords: Digital content creators, parasocial relationships, trans-parasocial relationships, Catholic priests, social media followers