SIGNIS Asia Equips Religious Sisters to Share Stories of Hope in Mainstream Media

Bangkok, May 9, 2026: In an age when media narratives are often shaped by conflict and division, a two-day initiative in Bangkok sought to amplify a different voice—one rooted in hope, faith, and human dignity. “Wisdom Calls,” a media workshop organised by SIGNIS Asia, brought together religious sisters from across the continent to strengthen their role as communicators of the Gospel in today’s digital world.

Held on May 8–9, the workshop gathered 12 participants representing nine Asian countries, including India, the Philippines, Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, and Timor-Leste. The programme focused on equipping sisters engaged in communication ministries with practical skills in journalism, digital storytelling, and media engagement.

Communicating Hope in a Changing Media Landscape

The workshop featured a distinguished panel of media professionals who guided participants through the evolving dynamics of contemporary communication. Among them were Dr. Peter Rachada Monthienvichienchai, veteran journalist Augustine Anthuvan, Reuters correspondent Panu Wongcha-um, digital media expert Martino Tan, and journalist-photographer Mark Saludes.

A key highlight of the sessions was the introduction to Solutions Journalism, an approach that moves beyond reporting problems to highlighting constructive responses. Mark Saludes underscored the importance of this model, encouraging participants to focus on stories that inspire change and offer hope. He outlined four essential pillars of this approach: response, evidence, insight, and limitations.

Building Bridges Across Media Spaces

The workshop also emphasised collaboration and networking among Catholic communicators in Asia. Augustine Anthuvan urged participants to serve as “bridges” within secular media, giving voice to the marginalised and bringing lesser-heard stories into public discourse.

Martino Tan highlighted the need for adaptability in digital communication, noting that audiences engage differently across platforms. He encouraged the sisters to creatively use multiple media channels to communicate messages of healing and enlightenment.

Rooted in Truth and Gospel Values

Reinforcing the ethical dimension of journalism, Panu Wongcha-um stressed that truth must remain at the heart of all reporting. He reminded participants of their responsibility to communicate accurately while exercising sensitivity and responsibility.

Adding a spiritual perspective, Sr. Nina Benedikta Krapić addressed the gathering online. She encouraged the sisters to recognise their unique role as bearers of God’s love through communication. “Our faces and voices are gifts,” she said, calling them to use storytelling as a means of revealing compassion and dignity in the world.

A Mission Carried Forward

The workshop concluded with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist at St. Louis Church Bangkok, marking a reflective and prayerful end to the programme.

More than a training initiative, “Wisdom Calls” emerged as a renewed call to mission—affirming communication as a vital ministry in the Church today. As participants return to their respective countries, they carry with them not only enhanced professional skills but also a deeper commitment to share stories that reflect truth, hope, and the presence of God in everyday life.

By Sr. Ganga Rawat SSpS