- 11 September, 2026
QUEZON CITY, Philippines, September 11, 2026: Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle has urged Catholic digital missionaries across Asia to allow Jesus to shape their lives before seeking to influence others through social media and other digital platforms.
“Every influencer has been influenced before influencing others,” Cardinal Tagle said in a video message screened on September 10 during the orientation of the First Asian Catholic Digital Missionary Assembly at the Pope John Paul II Auditorium on the Radio Veritas Asia campus in Quezon City.
Addressing more than 100 Catholic digital missionaries, communicators and influencers from across Asia, the cardinal called on them to examine the people, experiences and values that shape their own lives as they seek to witness to Christ in the digital environment.
“My appeal to you, dear digital missionaries, be aware of what and who influences you,” he said.
The four-day assembly, being held from September 10 to 13, brings together participants from diverse Asian countries and cultures under the theme “Influencers to Witnesses: Synodal Way for Digital Mission in Asia.” The gathering focuses on formation, reflection, discussion, sharing and collaboration in the Church’s digital mission.
Jesus as the centre of digital witness
Cardinal Tagle said Christian digital missionaries should allow Jesus to become a decisive influence on their lives and outlook.
“It is our prayer that you will allow Jesus, in the power of his Word and Spirit, to be a big influence in your life, in your outlook,” he said.
He stressed that authentic digital evangelisation cannot be separated from a personal experience of Christ.
“Having experienced the transforming influence of Jesus in your life, you will bear authentic, true, genuine witness to others that will influence them also,” Cardinal Tagle said.
“We influence others by what has influenced us,” he added.
The cardinal acknowledged that influence itself can be positive when it serves the common good and leads people towards Christ.
“It is good to influence others for the good, especially for the sake of witnessing to Jesus,” he said.
‘Pray well, study well’
Cardinal Tagle encouraged the participants to strengthen their relationship with Christ through prayer and study, particularly as they navigate the opportunities and challenges of digital communication.
“So, pray well, study well,” he said, urging those searching for a friend and a positive influence in their lives to turn to Jesus.
He also called on the digital missionaries to allow Christ’s light to reach others through their online witness.
“Let Jesus and his light shine forth by being an influence in his name,” he said.
The orientation formally launched the assembly, which seeks to equip Catholic digital missionaries and communicators to contribute more effectively to the Church’s evangelising mission in the digital world.
Cardinal Tagle concluded his message with a prayer for the participants and for the success of the gathering.
By Catholic Connect Reporter
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