News

Jabalpur, November 16, 2024 – The SIGNIS MP&CG Regional Conference, held from November 14 to 16, 2024, at St. Nobert Abbey, Jabalpur, gathered over 75 participants to discuss the theme “Artificial Intelligence and the Wisdom of the Heart Towards Fully Human Communication.” The event brought together communication professionals, church leaders, and media practitioners to explore the intersection of technology and human connection.

The conference was inaugurated with a ceremonial lamp lighting, attended by notable figures including Rev. Dr. Biju Alappattu, Secretary of the CBCI Office of Social Communication, Fr. Arulanandu O’Praem, Prior of St. Norbert’s Abbey, Fr. Rocky Sha, President of SIGNIS MP&CG, Mr. Sumit Dhanraj, Vice-President, SIGNIS India, and Mr. Bervin Raja, Head of Digital Marketing and Social Media at Zee Television. The opening session set a contemplative atmosphere with a prayer song by the Brothers of St. Norbert’s Abbey and a prayer dance performed by students from St. Norbert’s School.

Rev. Fr. Thomas Antony O’Praem, the local host, extended a warm welcome to attendees, presenting them with shawls, saplings, and mementos, symbolizing hospitality and environmental awareness. The keynote address by Rev. Dr. Alappattu highlighted the importance of modern communication tools, urging participants to use these technologies for the greater good. He echoed Pope Francis’ message on responsible social media use, emphasizing that “AI must be used for the benefit of humanity, not as a threat to our nations.”

The conference featured a diverse program that included a session by Mr. Bervin Raja on the practical applications of AI in communication. He addressed challenges such as copyright issues and AI-driven scams while also demonstrating the potential of tools like ChatGPT for enhancing communication efforts.

Hands-on workshops followed, where Rev. Fr. Anthony Swamy SVD introduced participants to creating visually appealing content using Microsoft Designer and Canva. His session equipped attendees with valuable design skills, fostering creativity in digital media production. Through the session, participants learned the principles of effective image design, including layout, color schemes, and typography. This knowledge ensures that their visual content is not only aesthetically pleasing but also communicates messages clearly and effectively.

Rev. Fr. Thomas Antony led another engaging workshop on video creation using Canva and Lumen5, providing insights into creating compelling multimedia content quickly and efficiently. The session emphasized practical applications of video editing for various purposes, such as promotional videos, social media content, and educational materials. Participants left with the ability to produce multimedia content that can effectively convey their messages in a dynamic format.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The evening session featured Rev. Dr. Cyril Victor Joseph, Coordinator of the CCBI Media Apostolate, who presented an overview of the CCBI Pastoral Plan for 2033. He emphasized the critical role of media in implementing this plan and the need for the Church to embrace digital tools as part of its mission. Most Rev. Dr. Valan Arasu, Bishop of Jabalpur, also addressed the gathering, encouraging the use of the Catholic Connect App to strengthen community ties and disseminate messages of faith.

The second day commenced with a Holy Mass led by Most Rev. Thomas Mathew, Chairman Bishop of CBMP Media and Communication. Bishop Mathew’s reflections on World Communications Day reinforced the role of communication in the Church’s mission, while Rev. Dr. Joseph reiterated the significance of the media apostolate within dioceses.

Participants also engaged in an open dialogue, sharing their media initiatives and discussing challenges in their respective ministries. A business meeting allowed SIGNIS members to collaborate on production planning and initiatives for World Communications Day, bringing out liturgical album to commemorate the jubilee year.

The conference concluded with heartfelt appreciation for the efforts of St. Norbert’s Abbey and its team, whose meticulous planning and hospitality contributed to the event’s success. A special word of thanks to Fr. Sanu Alunkal, the secretary of Communication Commission Gwalior, for the preparing the minutes of the meeting. Fr. Anthony Swamy, Secretary for the Communication Commission of CBMP, expressed gratitude for the enriching experience and the collaborative spirit fostered during the conference.

The SIGNIS MP&CG Regional Conference not only provided valuable insights into the evolving landscape of communication but also reinforced the importance of human connection in an increasingly digital world.