Cluny Sisters Encouraged to Embrace Digital Mission with Responsibility and Faith

Bengaluru, May 20, 2026: As the Church marked World Communications Day, Cluny Sisters from across India gathered at Preethi Sadan for a media awareness seminar that explored the opportunities and challenges of evangelisation in an increasingly digital world.

The one-day seminar, organised on May 17 at the Provincialate of the Cluny Sisters, brought together 45 sisters representing the congregation’s four provinces. The programme focused on helping participants understand the growing influence of media, social platforms, and artificial intelligence while encouraging responsible and mission-oriented engagement in the digital sphere.

The seminar was led by Fr. Cyril Victor Joseph of the CCBI Media Apostolate and Fr. Maria Antony, Director of ACC and AVE Studios. Through a series of presentations and interactive discussions, the resource persons highlighted the importance of viewing media not merely as technology, but as a powerful means of evangelisation, human formation, and Gospel witness.

A central theme of the seminar was the need for balance in digital engagement. The speakers cautioned against excessive dependence on online platforms and encouraged the sisters to maintain harmony between media use, prayer life, community relationships, and personal well-being. Participants were urged to cultivate discipline, mindfulness, and intentionality while navigating digital spaces.

The seminar also addressed concerns related to internet safety and online responsibility. Discussions covered cyber threats, misinformation, privacy concerns, and digital addiction. Practical guidance was offered on protecting personal information, identifying credible sources, and adopting safe digital practices in everyday communication.

Reflecting on consecrated life in the digital era, the speakers emphasised that religious men and women are called to witness Gospel values not only in physical communities but also in virtual spaces. The sisters were encouraged to use digital platforms to spread hope, faith, and positivity while remaining rooted in the charism and mission of their congregation. Authenticity, integrity, and respectful communication, the speakers noted, are essential aspects of Christian presence online.

An interactive session on the “Do’s and Don’ts” of social media further examined ethical communication, confidentiality, respectful engagement, and responsible sharing of content. Real-life examples and practical suggestions helped participants better understand both the opportunities and potential pitfalls associated with social media use.

Artificial intelligence emerged as another major topic of discussion during the seminar. Demonstrations introduced participants to AI-based tools that can assist in content creation, presentations, video production, and communication ministry. Addressing questions raised by the sisters, the speakers clarified the distinction between the broader digital world and artificial intelligence, explaining that AI refers specifically to intelligent systems capable of generating and processing content in advanced ways.

Participants described the seminar as timely and enriching, noting that it deepened their awareness of media realities and strengthened their confidence in using digital tools creatively and responsibly for mission and evangelisation in today’s rapidly evolving technological landscape.

By Catholic Connect Reporter