Priests Call for “Digital Missionary Shepherding” at Goa Assembly

Old Goa, April 19, 2026: Diocesan priests from across India have urged a renewed pastoral approach for the digital age, describing priests as “digital missionary shepherds” called to bring the Gospel into online spaces with discernment and integrity.

The appeal came during the XXII National Extended Council Meeting of the Conference of Diocesan Priests of India (CDPI), held from April 13 to 16 at the St. Joseph Vaz Renewal Centre in Old Goa. The meeting gathered 146 priests representing 65 dioceses across 13 regions of the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CCBI).

Focusing on the theme “Diocesan Clergy’s Pastoral Life in the Digital World – Blessings and Opportunities for Mission 2033,” the assembly highlighted the digital world as an “essential dimension” of modern life, shaping relationships, faith expression and spiritual search.

In their concluding message, the priests called on the Church to respond creatively to what they described as a “silent digital revolution,” while remaining rooted in the Gospel mandate to proclaim the Good News.

They acknowledged the opportunities digital media offers for evangelisation but warned of risks such as weakened relationships, loss of spiritual discipline and misuse of technology.

The assembly proposed a renewed pastoral identity, urging priests to accompany digital users responsibly while grounding their online presence in personal encounter with Christ and openness to the Holy Spirit.

Among key commitments, the priests pledged to use digital platforms responsibly, uphold integrity and clear personal boundaries online, and maintain a disciplined spiritual life through regular prayer, silence and periodic “digital fasting”.

They also stressed the importance of youth ministry, encouraging guidance for responsible digital engagement and deeper faith formation, while promoting movement from online interaction to lived experiences of prayer and community.

Reaffirming the centrality of sacramental and personal ministry, the assembly emphasised that digital tools should support—not replace—face-to-face encounters.

The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment to the CCBI’s pastoral roadmap, Mission 2033, calling for greater unity and collaboration across the Church in India.

By Catholic Connect Reporter

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