Participation and sharing: managing Church communication in a digital environment

Rome, April 26-28, 2016

Technological development over the last 10 years (especially the globalization of social media) has created a communications environment characterized by more numerous relationships, faster dissemination, and less time for reflection and response. Increasingly open and participative, it features less private communication and more sharing of information. News and information sources have multiplied, often resulting in a role-reversal between traditional media and their audiences. Gossip and information now travel alongside one another.

This panorama poses challenges but also offers opportunities for those working in Church Communications. As Pope Francis says, there is a need to “learn once again how to talk to one another, not simply how to generate and consume information,” and favor a “new culture of encounter. “

The 10th Professional Seminar for Church Communication Offices looks at ways to capitalize on the positive aspects and minimize the risks that this new scenario may pose. How can information flow be managed so as to travel in more directions, reaching all the actors in the social scene? Which instruments are most adequate for following the public conversation? What experiences are forming those who dialogue in this conversation, an increasingly open network in need of quality content and human testimonies?  How can one foster a creative public dialogue which is faithful to the perennial message of the Gospel?

In addition to presenting new communication tendencies and office work methods, the Seminar aims to be an occasion of mutual exchange: Church communication professionals sharing experiences from various different countries and cultures.