Deacons Trained in Media, Communication, and Pastoral Leadership in Bengaluru

Bengaluru, September 5, 2025 — The Deacons Media Training Course 2025 is being held in Bengaluru from September 2 to 6, bringing together deacons for a series of sessions designed to strengthen communication, media skills, and pastoral leadership. The course features inputs from bishops, priests, media experts, and communication professionals, focusing on the role of clergy in engaging effectively with both the Church and society through digital and traditional platforms.

The first day featured sessions on Synodal Communication in the Digital Environment by Fr. Cyril Victor Joseph, introducing participants to effective ways of engaging with the faithful online. This was followed by a session on Press Relations and Media Relations with Mr. J. A. Kanthraj, where deacons learned practical skills for interacting with the media. Participants also viewed the movie Writing with Fire, gaining practical insights into storytelling and understanding the influence of media.

On the following day, Archbishop Peter Machado delivered the inaugural talk on Pastoral Leadership and a Pastor’s Lifestyle. He highlighted the four C’s—Calling, Confidence, Competence, and Character—as essential for ministry, and shared slides and videos showcasing his interactions with the secular press and media.

The deacons explored Telling the Story of Jesus in the Digital Age, learning creative ways to share the Gospel online and how technology can enhance pastoral work. In a complementary session, Fr. Maria Antony demonstrated How to Be Digital Missionaries with AI Tools, showing how modern technology can expand the reach and impact of evangelization. The day also included a hands-on studio visit, where deacons practiced presenting in front of cameras and using a teleprompter, turning theory into practical skills.

The third day focused on hands-on training in audiography and videography, giving participants the opportunity to create and record content while learning professional techniques.

On September 6, Dr. Juby Thomas will lead the final session on Creating a Positive Church Environment: Practicing Soft Skills and Building PR with a Mock Press Conference.

Participants shared their impressions of the course, saying, “The sessions were enriching, teaching us how to use AI, media, and presentation skills for effective pastoral outreach.” They added, “Fr. Cyril and Fr. Maria Antony guided us effectively with both theory and practice,” and noted, “Archbishop Peter Machado’s talk inspired us to responsibly use media in evangelisation.”

The Deacons Media Training Course 2025 underscores the growing need for clergy to be equipped not only in pastoral care but also in communication and media engagement. In an age where digital platforms shape public perception and the Church’s message extends far beyond the pulpit, such training prepares deacons to effectively share the Gospel, engage with communities, and responsibly navigate the modern media landscape.

By Catholic Connect Reporter

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