Catholic communicators are called to "whisper the Gospel with authenticity, truth, and courage" in today’s complex digital landscape, said Bishop Vijaya Kumar Rayarala, Chairman of the CBCI Office for Social Communications.
The Bishop of Srikakulam, in his keynote address at the inauguration of the SIGNIS India National Assembly (SINA 2026) in Jalandhar, Punjab, emphasised that communication in the Church is not merely about content creation.
Addressing media professionals, clergy, religious, and delegates from across India, the CBCI Communications Chairman on April 14, 2026 said that communication is fundamentally about witnessing Christ.
Drawing from the Asian pastoral insight of “whispering the Gospel,” Bishop Rayarala explained that authentic communication does not impose but invites, transforms, and builds trust. “In a world filled with noise, the Gospel often reaches hearts through quiet, consistent, and credible witness,” he said.
Reflecting on SINA 2026 theme—“Whispers of Hope: Communicating Peace, Growing Together, Building Futures”—the bishop said that communication must foster relationships rooted in human dignity. Citing the message of Pope Leo XIV for the World Day of Social Communications, he noted that communication is fundamentally relational, enabling genuine encounter and recognition of the other as created in the image of God.
The CBCI Communications Chairman also addressed the challenges posed by rapid technological advancements, particularly artificial intelligence. While acknowledging its potential, he cautioned against the risks of superficial engagement and manipulation. “The issue is not merely technological but deeply human,” he said, urging communicators to safeguard truth, responsibility, and dignity in all media practices.
Calling for ethical commitment, Bishop Rayarala stressed that Catholic media professionals are not merely influencers but “servants of the Gospel.” He urged the communicators to hold on to honesty, transparency, and courage, ensuring that truth is never compromised for popularity or profit.
He further emphasised the urgent need for media literacy, collaboration within the Church, and the formation of young communicators. “Communication must heal rather than wound, unite rather than divide, and enlighten rather than inflame,” he said, describing the role of communicators as bridge-builders in a polarised world.
Highlighting the synodal dimension of communication, he encouraged listening—especially to the poor, the marginalised, and the youth—so that the Church’s message remains authentic and inclusive.
The Chief Guest bishop also congratulated Bishop Jose Sebastian Thekkumcherikunnel of Jalandhar for hosting the national assembly. The CBCI Communications Chairman further acknowledged the contributions of SIGNIS India leadership, organisers of SINA 2026, and long-serving SIGNIS members, particularly women religious.
He called on participants to renew their mission in Christ, the “perfect communicator,” and to build a future rooted in truth, love, and hope through responsible and faith-filled media engagement.
Bishop Rayarala Vijaykumar PIME was warmly felicitated along with Bishop Jose Sebastian Thekkumcherikunnel, in traditional Punjabi style, with a turban and garland, reflecting the region’s rich cultural hospitality.
Bishop Vijaykumar Rayarala. PIME, (Pontificium Institutum pro Missionibus Exteris) attends SINA for the first time as the Chairman of the CBCI Office for Social Communications. Currently he is the only serving Catholic bishop in India belonging to Pontifical Institute for Foreign Missions. He was elected Chairman of the CBCI Office for Social Communications during the 37th General Body Meeting of the Catholic Bishops' Conference of India (CBCI), held from February 4–10, 2026 in Bengaluru. He succeeds Bellary Bishop Henry D'Souza. The Office was believed to be held first by Bishop Patrick D'Souza of Varanasi.