- 28 April, 2026
April 28, 2026: As the Church prepares to mark the 60th World Day of Social Communications, the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI) has directed dioceses across the country to organise meaningful and participatory observances on May 17, 2026, highlighting the growing urgency of responsible communication in a digital age.
The circular, released by the CBCI Office for Social Communications, highlights the theme proposed by Pope Leo XIV, “Preserving Human Voices and Faces,” and calls for renewed reflection on the dignity and authenticity of human communication in an increasingly digital world.
According to the communication, the Church is invited to recognize that communication is not merely the transmission of information but a “profound encounter between persons,” even as advancements in artificial intelligence and digital technologies pose risks to the relational essence of human interaction.
The CBCI noted that in the Indian context—marked by diverse cultures, languages, and traditions—the call to promote truthful, inclusive, and compassionate communication is especially urgent. It emphasized that the Church in India must act as a bridge for dialogue, unity, and participation, particularly within the framework of a synodal Church.
The circular encourages dioceses to embrace digital technologies responsibly for evangelization, education, and social transformation, while remaining vigilant against misinformation, manipulation, and the erosion of critical thinking. Responsibility, cooperation, and education were identified as essential pillars for fostering a healthy communication culture.
At the diocesan level, the CBCI has recommended organizing solemn Eucharistic celebrations led by bishops, with the participation of media professionals, journalists, content creators, and communication students. These celebrations may include special prayers for ethical communication and digital evangelization.
The circular also proposes workshops and training sessions focused on digital mission and the responsible use of artificial intelligence, aimed at equipping clergy, religious, and youth with practical skills in social media engagement and combating misinformation.
Among the suggested initiatives are youth media competitions featuring short films, posters, reels, podcasts, and blog writing based on the theme, along with diocesan media awards to recognize excellence in communication. Panel discussions and media dialogues are also encouraged to address issues such as fake news, media ethics, and the Church’s role in public discourse.
At the parish level, the CBCI has called for awareness campaigns promoting responsible social media use, as well as coordinated digital evangelization efforts through the sharing of Gospel reflections, testimonies, and catechetical content online. Special prayer services and intercessions for journalists and media workers have also been recommended.
The circular further urges dioceses to release the Bishop’s message and utilize media kits, including social media creatives and videos, to ensure a unified observance.
Describing World Communications Day as more than an annual event, the CBCI called it a renewed commitment to “authentic, responsible, and mission-oriented communication,” especially in a world shaped by algorithms and artificial intelligence.
The message concluded by encouraging the faithful, particularly youth, to become “digital missionaries” who use technology to proclaim the Gospel, build communities, and serve the common good, while seeking the intercession of St. Francis de Sales, the patron of communicators.
By Catholic Connect Reporter
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