Bangalore Archdiocese Trains Deacons for Digital Pastoral Communication

Bengaluru, September 29, 2026: Equipping future priests to communicate the Gospel in a changing media landscape, the Archdiocese of Bangalore organised the Deacons Media Training Course 2026 at Paalanaa Bhavana from September 21 to 26. The six-day programme brought together 55 deacons from different dioceses and religious congregations pursuing their Pastoral Course at St. Peter’s Pontifical Institute.

The training covered Digital Shepherding, media roles and responsibilities, case studies, sound basics, camera confidence and media presence. Participants received practical exposure to camera work, audiography, vocal recording, video-making and digital audio tools. The sessions emphasised communication as a human and meaningful activity rooted in the mission of the Church.

Mr J. A. KanthRaj, PRO of the Archdiocese of Bangalore, addressed the role of priests in public relations and in building the image of parishes, dioceses and Church institutions. Prof. Dr Juby Thomas led sessions on soft skills, leadership and public relations. Through practical exercises and a mock press conference, the deacons developed clarity, confidence and responsible communication skills.

The final sessions focused on civil communication, social media guidelines and responsible digital engagement, followed by presentations of individual and group assignments. The programme highlighted the importance of listening, understanding and reaching out to people through communication.

At the conclusion of the course, Archbishop Peter Machado of Bangalore encouraged the deacons to recognise communication as an integral part of their pastoral mission.

“Media is not simply about technology; it is about people, relationships and the message of hope we carry. Let us use every platform responsibly to bring Christ closer to people,” he said.

Bishop Arockiaraj Satis Kumar, Auxiliary Bishop and in-charge Bishop of the Commission for Social Communication, encouraged the deacons to embrace new forms of communication with creativity and pastoral responsibility.

Fr. Nirmal Miranda, Coordinator of the Pastoral Course at St. Peter’s Pontifical Institute, encouraged the deacons to integrate their learning from the training into their pastoral ministry and daily service to the Church.

Fr. Cyril Victor Joseph, Coordinator for the CCBI Media Apostolate and Secretary of the Commission for Social Communication, served as a key resource person throughout the programme. He reminded the participants of the potential of media in the service of the Gospel.

“When we understand media and use it wisely, we can communicate the Gospel in ways that people can see, hear and experience,” he said.

Fr. Maria Anthony, Director of ACC and AVE Studios, highlighted the human dimension of communication, saying, “Media is ultimately about people. Every story can carry hope, every image can communicate faith, and every platform can become a bridge that brings someone closer to Christ.”

The six-day programme left the deacons with renewed enthusiasm to become not only users of media but also hope-filled communicators who listen, connect and share the Gospel with people today.

By Catholic Connect Reporter