Bangalore: In an inspiring convergence of faith and technology, diocesan and regional communication secretaries from across India gathered in Bengaluru for a two-day national meet on November 4 and 5, reflecting on how the Church can proclaim the message of hope in today’s complex digital landscape. The assembly, held under the banner of the Jubilee of Communicators 2025, centred on the theme “Synodal Communication in the Digital Environment.”
The gathering commenced with a solemn Eucharistic celebration presided over by Archbishop Peter Machado of Bengaluru, who prayed for renewed zeal among Church communicators to become authentic witnesses of faith in the modern media age.
In his keynote address on the theme “Heralds of Hope,” Bishop Eugene Joseph of Varanasi, member of the CBCI Office for Social Communications, underscored that the Church’s mission in media is not merely to inform, but to transform. He urged communicators to counter the prevailing culture of fear and negativity by fostering narratives of hope and unity. “Communication must serve human dignity,” he said, reminding participants that the Church’s task is to become “bearers of hope in a world wounded by misinformation, conflict, and polarization.”
Fr. Cyril Victor Joseph, representing the CCBI Media Apostolate, invited communicators to reimagine their roles in a fast-evolving media environment. He stressed that adaptability and discernment are essential virtues for those serving in Church communication today. “The digital world is not merely a platform it is a mission field,” he said. Fr. Cyril emphasized responsible reporting, truthfulness, and compassion as the cornerstones of credible Catholic communication. “Social media,” he noted, “must become a space for dialogue, witness, and evangelization, not just for information exchange.”
Turning attention to strategy, Fr. Nigel Barrett, PRO of the CCBI and Western Regional Secretary, spoke on the importance of narrative integrity and digital visibility. He highlighted the need for every diocese and parish to strengthen its online presence through dynamic websites and active social media engagement. “Telling the story right is crucial,” he stated, calling for a greater focus on sharing uplifting stories and Church initiatives from the grassroots to the global stage. Fr. Barrett also drew attention to practical aspects like budgeting, promoting interreligious harmony, and amplifying the activities of CCBI commissions through transparent communication.
The conference also marked the introduction of Catholic Connect, a new digital platform designed to bridge technology and faith. Presenting the initiative, Fr. Cyril Victor explained that Catholic Connect aims to make digital tools accessible to every parish at no cost. Abhishek Joseph, General Manager, detailed its diverse features ranging from news and matrimony to spiritual guidance and job listings crafted to serve the Catholic community comprehensively. Canisha Judith, Head of Content, shared insights into the growing readership of the news section, while Naveen D’Souza, Head of Matrimony, reflected on fostering meaningful Catholic relationships through the platform.
The sessions also included moments of prayer and introspection led by Fr. Joe Xavier SJ, who guided participants through spiritual conversations and group reflections. He encouraged communicators to cultivate attentive listening and empathetic dialogue, reminding them that authentic communication arises from a deep spiritual encounter and shared understanding.
As the two-day gathering unfolded, a sense of shared mission and collaboration permeated the discussions. Participants left with renewed commitment to practice synodal communication a model rooted in listening, participation, and unity. The Jubilee of Communicators Meet thus became not only a forum for technical dialogue but also a spiritual movement calling every communicator to echo the Church’s timeless message of faith, hope, and love across the digital frontier.