The conference featured a series of practical workshops each afternoon, focusing on harnessing digital media and technology for evangelization, communication, and outreach. Industry experts shared their insights on various aspects of digital engagement, from branding to utilizing social media for ministry.
Workshop Highlights
1. Branding Yourself and Your Organization
Led by Mr. Adrien Stevens, a marketing professional, this session provided valuable tips on managing brand identity in the digital landscape. He emphasized creating a strong, authentic online presence, resonating with participants eager to enhance their ministry's visibility and outreach.
2. Leveraging AI in Ministry
Ms. Poorva Jain, a Digital Evangelist and Tech Entrepreneur, introduced the potential of artificial intelligence in ministry programs. Her insights helped participants understand how AI can enhance outreach and effectiveness in evangelistic efforts.
3. Social Media for Digital Ministry
Mr. Livin Varghese explored effective strategies for utilizing social media to spread the Good News. He provided practical content creation techniques and engagement tactics, equipping attendees with the tools needed to amplify their ministry's digital presence.
4. Social Media Marketing & E-Commerce
In a workshop led by Mr. Wilfred Fernandes and Mr. Sarthak Sikdar from Young Creative Services, participants learned how to align digital marketing techniques with ministry goals, reaching a wider audience through effective strategies.
5. Smartphone Discipleship
Fr. Renold Pascal, SSP, conducted an interactive session demonstrating how smartphones can be tools for evangelization and spiritual growth. His workshop showcased how digital discipleship can reach individuals in their everyday lives.
6. Building Effective Digital Platforms
Dr. Praveen Joe and Dr. David Raj from Vellore Institute of Technology discussed the essentials of creating effective websites, apps, and livestreaming strategies for ministry. Their practical tips highlighted technology's role in connecting communities and spreading the Gospel.
Catholic Connections & Resources
The conference also provided a platform to showcase, significant interventions from leaders in Catholic media and communication.
The Illuminaire National Catholic Media Conference also featured significant interventions from prominent figures in Catholic media and communication. Fr. Vijay Lobo, President of SIGNIS India, emphasized the role of media in fostering peace, justice, and unity among Catholic communicators. Mr. Ignatious Gonsalves, President of the Indian Catholic Press Association (ICPA), highlighted the Catholic press's responsibility in addressing societal issues and advocating for truth.
Fr. David Arockiam, CEO of Madha TV, detailed the channel’s spiritual programming, while Fr. Ernest Rosario, Coordinator of BOSCOM, shared how the Salesian Media Network engages youth creatively while promoting Salesian values. Fr. Joshan Rodrigues, Editor of The Examiner, underscored Catholic journalism's power to inspire authentic faith practices, while Fr. Michael Makri, Director of DBMN, showcased the integration of Don Bosco’s pedagogy with modern media. Mr Abishek Joseph, the General Manager of Catholic Connect presented the features and utility of the Catholic Connect App .
Each speaker shared their area of expertise, shedding light on how their platforms and apps function to reach and engage audiences through various media channels. These discussions underscored the importance of using media as a tool to connect, inform, and inspire the faithful.
A notable highlight was the interaction with Dr. Paolo Ruffini, Prefect of the Dicastery for Communication at the Vatican. The participants had ample opportunities to ask him questions and share their concerns. Dr Paolo, stressed the importance of local innovation and the need for communication rooted in "learning by doing." His call for localized efforts that resonate globally underscored the conference's mission.
During the Valedictory programme that followed, Fr. Gildasio Mendes SDB, the General Councillor for Social Communication urged the participants to be authors of a transformative media mission, communicating with mercy and love. He encapsulated a roadmap for digital communication in the "3 Cs" – understanding the identity and responsibility of being Christian, creating innovative Content through music, art, and creativity, and remain as Connectors in the Communication world today, building bridges between communities and fostering collaboration.
Special acknowledgment was given to the Illuminaire team and contributors who ensured the conference's success. Fr. Harris, the Coordinator of Illuminare expressed gratitude and envisioned this event as an annual platform for advancing the Church’s mission in social media.
The National Catholic Media Conference ignited a collective resolve to spread the Good News through innovative media strategies, empowering them to continue their digital evangelization efforts in their communities and beyond, through synergy, networking and collaboration.
