Karnataka Diocesan Public Relations Officers Strengthen Church Communication Skills

BENGALURU, August 21, 2026: Twenty-two Diocesan Public Relations Officers from across Karnataka gathered at Subodhana, the Karnataka Regional Pastoral Centre in Bengaluru, for a one-day training and workshop focused on strengthening the Church’s communication and public relations efforts.

Archbishop Peter Machado, addressing the gathering, stressed the growing importance of the Public Relations Officer in an increasingly complex and rapidly changing public environment. He called on Church communicators to witness to the truth with honesty and integrity.

A Public Relations Officer, he said, should not be viewed merely as someone responsible for managing crises. The role involves communicating the mission, life, activities and witness of the Church clearly and effectively to the wider public.

Fr Nigel Barrett, Public Relations Officer of the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India, conducted a master class examining changes in India’s social landscape and the evolving public perceptions and narratives surrounding the Church. He highlighted the challenges facing Church communicators and the need for more effective and responsible communication in the present environment.

The workshop also provided opportunities for dialogue, interaction and mutual learning. Participants shared experiences from their respective dioceses and reflected on the practical challenges involved in communicating Church activities and responding to emerging issues.

The training was organised by Fr Anil Joel Prasad, Regional Public Relations Officer of the Karnataka Regional Catholic Bishops Council. It brought together Public Relations Officers representing all 14 dioceses of Karnataka.

The gathering concluded with a renewed commitment among the participants to strengthen communication networks and enhance the Church’s public engagement across the state.

By Fr. Anil Joel Prasad

Regional PRO (KRCBC), Karnataka