‘Truth Not Spoken Is a Lie,’ Says Archbishop Machado at National Convention of Christian Journalists

BENGALURU, September 19, 2026: “Truth not spoken is a lie upheld,” Archbishop Peter Machado of Bengaluru told Catholic journalists, urging them to remain committed to truth, independence and human dignity in an increasingly challenging media environment.

The Archbishop was inaugurating the 31st National Convention of Christian Journalists and Annual General Body Meeting of the Indian Catholic Press Association (ICPA) on September 19 at Paalana Bhavana, the Archdiocesan Pastoral Centre, Bengaluru.

Speaking on the theme “Humanity, Dignity and Truth: Journalism Without Compromise in the Age of AI,” Archbishop Machado said journalism should be understood as a vocation rather than merely a profession.

He expressed concern that journalism was increasingly becoming commercialised, with truth often being eclipsed. Referring to the Indian media landscape, he said mainstream media was “almost caged”, while smaller media organisations that “make some noise” faced pressure and persecution.

He urged journalists to remain independent and accountable and not to lose their humaneness in the age of artificial intelligence.

Vinod Jose, former editor of The Caravan, spoke about the relationship between journalism and democracy, drawing attention to historical instances in which independent voices were gradually suppressed.

He said the role of Christian communicators was particularly demanding because witnessing to Christ itself required courage and commitment.

Referring to the rapid development of artificial intelligence, Jose said AI was already reaching levels of capability that would significantly challenge journalists in the coming years. Its growing capabilities, he said, would make the task of journalists increasingly difficult.

“The work of journalists is going to become even harder,” he said.

Former ICPA ecclesiastical adviser Bishop Henry D’Souza of Bellary, ICPA President Fr Suresh Mathew OFM Cap., Fr Biju Alappat of the Secretariat for Social Communications of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India, and ICPA Secretary Sister Tessy Jacob also addressed the gathering.

The two-day convention brings together Catholic journalists and communicators to reflect on the challenges facing journalism, particularly the impact of artificial intelligence on truth, human dignity and professional responsibility.

By Catholic Connect Reporter