The Second Cybermission Congress, themed “I am GENTLE: Growing Emphatic, Nurturing, Truthful, Listening, Equitable,” is underway at the Communications Foundation for Asia in Sta. Mesa, Manila, gathering Catholic digital missionaries, communicators, and content creators from dioceses across the Philippines on April 28.
In one of the opening plenary talks, Bishop Luisito A. Occiano of the Diocese of Virac emphasized the Church’s responsibility in the digital space. “Our account is our alter ego. It represents who we are and the institution to which we belong. We must extend our personhood to our media presence and maintain a credible image,” he said.
Occiano also highlighted the need for stronger digital discipleship, advocating for the training of seminarians and the ongoing formation of priests to effectively evangelize in the fast-evolving digital landscape. He stressed the importance of balancing technological advancement with spiritual depth, reminding participants, “Let us not forget the importance of contemplative practices and prayer.”
Dr. Fernando Cadiz Carandang Jr., RPsy, a clinical psychologist from Carandang Institute Mental Health Services, offered psychological insights on crafting uplifting and emotionally intelligent online content. “It’s better to be inspirational than just influential,” he said, encouraging the creation of safe, supportive online communities that foster emotional and spiritual growth.
Meanwhile, Sr. Maria Rosario D. Agtarap from the Daughters of St. Paul invited participants to follow Christ’s pastoral model in digital ministry. “Jesus journeyed with His disciples and awakened friendship and hope,” she shared. “We are pilgrims and messengers of hope. We must tell stories of healing and unity, especially in difficult times.”
Agtarap also emphasized the need for inner formation in communication, reminding everyone, “We cannot give what we do not have. Let us care for ourselves, avoid instinctive reactions, and build a culture of care and non-aggressive communication.”
The congress, which runs until April 30, continues to offer workshops, reflections, and sharing sessions focused on promoting responsible, compassionate, and faith-driven digital evangelization.
Radio Veritas Asia (RVA), a media platform of the Catholic Church, aims to share Christ. RVA started in 1969 as a continental Catholic radio station to serve Asian countries in their respective local language, thus earning the tag “the Voice of Asian Christianity.” Responding to the emerging context, RVA embraced media platforms to connect with the global Asian audience via its 21 language websites and various social media platforms.
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