Church Leaders in Northeast Unite to Advance Communication Strategies

Guwahati, December 16, 2024: The Northeast Social Communicators held a three-day meeting from December 11 to 13, 2024, at the NEIRBC Secretariat in Guwahati, bringing together representatives from 11 dioceses, along with Divine Word and Salesian priests. Sponsored by the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CCBI), the gathering aimed to strengthen the Church's communication strategies and foster collaboration among diocesan communicators.

In a message delivered by Vatican Prefect for Communication Dr. Paolo Ruffini, he emphasized that Communication Directors are called to forge deep connections through their work, acknowledging that they serve as instruments of God in this important mission.

Rev Dr. George Plathottam Sdb, FABC Executive Secretary and former Regional Secretary for Communication, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the Church's commitment to communication as a vital element of the Synod. "Communication can only be effective through active listening—listening to the realities of our communities," he noted.

Bishop Albert Hemrom of Dibrugarh, Regional Chairman of the Social Communication Commission, graced the occasion with a keynote address that celebrated the impressive turnout of participants. He noted the necessity of collaboration within the diverse and multicultural landscape of Northeast India, where inclusiveness is imperative for effective communication.

Rev Dr. Cyril Victor Joseph, CCBI Coordinator of the Media Apostolate, led a session on the urgent need to build Institutional Communication and promote the Church's image. He pointed out the stark underrepresentation of the Northeast Church online, citing a Google search that revealed limited media coverage. He warned that this information vacuum could perpetuate misunderstandings, urging communicators to share the Church's developmental initiatives and witness to their faith in writing.

In a development shared during the meeting, Dr. Cyril presented the "Catholic Connect" app—a one-stop platform aimed at connecting Catholics across India. Participants responded enthusiastically, recognizing the app's potential to facilitate connections for job opportunities, insurance, partnership and continuous updates on global happenings, all while aligning with the Indian government's Digital India initiative.

CBCI Secretary for Social Communication Dr. Biju Alapat presented an engaging visual of the 2024 World Communication Day message, illustrating how intellect should remain in constant harmony with the heart—a sentiment that resonated deeply with attendees.

The event featured a panel discussion with influential regional media figures, including Fr. Jimbert K. Marak from Tura, whose YouTube channel boasts over 75 million views and 300,000 subscribers. He recounted how he gained traction through creative content but acknowledged the challenges posed by his multiple responsibilities. He expressed pride in being commissioned to produce a documentary on the adverse effects of mobile phone misuse by the Meghalaya Government.

Salesian Fr. Michael Makri detailed the humble beginnings of dbmntv Shillong, which has now gained visibility on OTT platforms. With humour, he remarked that where printed texts could not reach, his television platform did, making a transformative impact.

The gathering also featured insights from Divine Word Fr. Ivan D’Silva on his feature film "Yarwng," and Fr. Joseph Manickthan from Dibrugarh shared the historical contributions of Signis to social communications. Looking ahead, the participants identified the necessity for basic infrastructure at communication centres including at the regional centre, ongoing training and a structured Media Education Syllabus.

Newly appointed Secretary for the NEIRBC's Commission for Social Communication, Fr. Kampan Chinnam, proposed that the Commission, in collaboration with Signis, as NESCOM, develop a weekly news bulletin and regular homilies. He suggested the establishment of an advisory board and editorial guidelines to facilitate this initiative.

During the Annual General Body Meeting of NESCOM, which includes members from the Regional Commission for Social Communication and Signis, Signis President Fr. Vijay Lobo provided insights into the organisation and its significance via Zoom. Pauline Fr. Saji Anthony raised concerns over communication lapses regarding the program for diocesan social communication directors. However, the Chairman clarified the roles of NESCOM and Signis members, ensuring a shared understanding.

As the meeting concluded, it sparked a positive and collaborative outlook among participants, with the Pauline Fathers committing to join forces with NESCOM for future productions, slated to begin by the end of January 2025.

Fr. John Thurr