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Illuminaire: The Digital Field as a New Mission Field
Illuminaire: The Digital Field as a New Mission Field On November 23-24, 2024, Sisters Deepa, Sowjanya, and I attended the National Media Conference "Illuminaire 2024: Nurturing Digital Stewardship" at St. John's Medical College in Bangalore. Organized collaboratively by the Salesians of Don Bosco Communication and the South Asian Salesian Social Communications Body (BOSCOM), the event united key ecclesiastical organizations, including the Dicastery for Communication Rome, the Catholic Bishops Conference of India (CBCI), the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CCBI), the Federation of Asian Bishops Conferences (FABC), and Catholic Religious India (CRI).This significant conference marked a critical milestone in exploring and understanding digital communication strategies within the Church's ministry in our increasingly interconnected world.
Over two days, approximately 300 religious communication professionals, media experts, and theological scholars gathered to deliberate on emerging paradigms of digital engagement in spiritual contexts. Prominent speakers emphasized that the virtual world has become a primary platform for engagement and spiritual connection, no longer a peripheral space. They highlighted that digital media has evolved from a mere communication tool into a powerful channel for evangelization, necessitating intentional and mindful use.
At the heart of the discussions was a call for heightened digital awareness. Participants were challenged to approach online interactions with profound intentionality, viewing every post, comment, and share as a representation of our broader spiritual community. The conference introduced a thoughtful framework for digital engagement, encouraging individuals to filter their digital content through three critical questions:
1. Is it true?
2. Is it good?
3. Is it necessary?
Our delegation actively engaged in robust dialogues about the evolving landscape of digital communication, focusing particularly on how younger generations interact with spiritual content in virtual spaces. The conference provided valuable strategies for creating compelling, meaningful, and spiritually resonant digital content.
"Illuminaire 2024" ultimately presented a transformative perspective on digital discipleship. It challenged participants to view technological platforms as powerful instruments of spiritual witness, where every interaction becomes an opportunity for meaningful connection. The conference charted a thoughtful path for religious communication in the digital age, emphasizing that our digital presence is an extension of our spiritual identity, requiring the highest levels of integrity, compassion, and discernment.
Additionally, the workshop offered practical sessions on modern technological tools for digital media, equipping us with skills to enhance our digital ministries. As the symposium concluded, it was clear that the digital landscape is not to be feared or avoided but embraced as a vital arena for spiritual growth, community building, and meaningful communication. The resounding message was unmistakable: embrace technology with intention, wisdom, and a deep commitment to spiritual values.
Sr.Nirmala (SSJA) Viskhapatnam Provience