Last January, I had the privilege of attending the 14th Professional Seminar on Church Communication Offices, organised by the Pontifical University of the Holy Cross in Rome.
During those days, I had the opportunity to meet outstanding professionals in the field of communication and to enrich myself with their knowledge and experiences. I was able to learn about their programmes and strategies, but above all, the deeper meaning behind them. However, if you were to ask me what I take away from this experience, none of these undeniably valuable aspects would be the first to spring from my heart.
What has truly left a mark on me from this congress and the subsequent Jubilee of Communication is the deep conviction that our mission is to be transmitters of hope and the experience of God to the world, from who we are. To bring the Good News of Jesus to others, both within and beyond, from within our fragile reality. Not seeking or intending, through our communication, to build an identity centred on ourselves and our charism, but one that is always in relation to the One who gave it to us. To always keep in mind that all our resources, programmes, and strategies must be placed at the service of this purpose. And that when our image is questioned due to our mistakes, we should not be afraid to acknowledge them and communicate them with transparency, humility, and simplicity—knowing that we are limited yet loved by the Lord.
Finally, another realisation that has deeply resonated with me—though it may seem obvious at first glance—is the feeling of truly being part of the Church. Seeing so many people from different nationalities, congregations, orders, movements, and realities gathered together has helped me become more aware that we are following the same God with a shared mission.
Amidst all that I have learned and shared, what I take away most is the certainty that we are not alone in this mission. We are part of something greater. May this experience continue to resonate within us, inspiring us to be authentic witnesses of the One who sends us.
Photo taken from the social media of the Pontifical University of the Holy Cross
