New Skills, New Voices, One Mission: Deacons Carrying Hope Through Communication

The Archdiocese of Bangalore organised the Deacons Media Training Course 2026 from September 21 to 26 at Paalanaa Bhavana, bringing together 55 deacons from different dioceses and religious congregations who are currently pursuing their Pastoral Course at St. Peter’s Pontifical Institute. The programme offered them a meaningful week of learning, reflection and practical experience in media and communication, helping them discover new ways of sharing the Gospel and connecting with people in today’s changing world.

The training opened with sessions on Digital Shepherding, media roles and responsibilities, case studies, sound basics, camera confidence and media presence. The deacons were introduced to the foundations of digital ministry and were given practical exposure to camera work, audiography, vocal recording, video-making and digital audio tools. The emphasis throughout was not simply on learning technology, but on understanding how communication can become more human, meaningful and rooted in the mission of the Church.

A special focus was placed on the pastoral and relational dimensions of communication. Mr. J. A. KanthRaj, PRO of the Archdiocese of Bangalore, helped the deacons understand the role of a priest in public relations and in building the image of the parish, diocese and Church institutions. A special focus on soft skills, leadership and public relations, led by Prof. Dr. Juby Thomas. Through practical exercises and a mock press conference, the deacons were encouraged to develop clarity, confidence and responsible communication skills.

The final sessions explored principles of civil communication, social media guidelines and responsible digital engagement, followed by presentations of individual and group assignments. The week became a journey from learning to practice, helping the deacons recognise that communication begins with listening, understanding and reaching out to people.

At the conclusion of the course, Most Rev. Dr. Peter Machado, Archbishop of Bangalore, addressed the deacons and encouraged them to see communication as an important part of their pastoral mission. “Media is not simply about technology; it is about people, relationships and the message of hope we carry. Let us use every platform responsibly to bring Christ closer to people,” he said.

Rt. Rev. Arockiaraj Satis Kumar, Auxiliary Bishop and incharge Bishop of the commission for Social Communication encouraged the deacons to embrace new forms of communication with creativity and pastoral responsibility. “Fr. Nirmal Miranda, Coordinator of the Pastoral Course at St. Peter’s Pontifical Institute, also encouraged the deacons to integrate the learning from the training into their pastoral ministry and daily service to the Church.”

Rev. Dr. Cyril Victor Joseph, Coordinator for the CCBI Media Apostolate and Secretary of the Commission for Social Communication and a key resource person throughout the programme, reminded the participants that media can become a powerful instrument when placed at the service of the Gospel. “When we understand media and use it wisely, we can communicate the Gospel in ways that people can see, hear and experience,” he said.

Reflecting on the training, Fr. Maria Anthony, Director of ACC and AVE Studios, highlighted the human heart of communication: “Media is ultimately about people. Every story can carry hope, every image can communicate faith, and every platform can become a bridge that brings someone closer to Christ.” The six-day programme concluded with renewed enthusiasm among the deacons, who were encouraged to become not only users of media, but hope-filled communicators who listen, connect and share the Gospel with the people of today.