SIGNIS Karnataka Assembly Focuses on AI, Humanitas and Catholic Communication; Felicitates SIGNIS Asia President
- SIGNIS KARNATAKA REGIONAL STUDY AND ASSEMBLY 2026: Catholic Communicators Reflect on AI, Humanitas and the Future of Church Communication
Mangaluru: SIGNIS Karnataka, the Catholic Association for Communication, organised its Regional Study and Assembly 2026 at St Anthony’s Church, Kulur, Mangaluru, bringing together members and Catholic communication professionals for a day of intellectual engagement, professional formation, organisational deliberations and fellowship.
The gathering was held under the theme “AI and Human Communication:
Upholding Humanitas in the Digital Age,” focusing on the opportunities and challenges posed by artificial intelligence and the responsibility of Catholic communicators to uphold human dignity, truth, ethics and authentic human relationships in the rapidly evolving digital landscape.
Study Sessions: AI and the Mission of Catholic Communication
The morning study programme featured two sessions addressing the implications of artificial intelligence for the Church and its communication mission.
Dr. Juby Thomas, Director, Centre for Consultancy and Corporate Training, Kristu Jayanti Deemed to be University, Bengaluru, delivered a session titled “AI and Human Communication: Redefining the Role of the Catholic Church.” He explored the transformative impact of artificial intelligence on human communication and examined how the Church can engage with emerging technologies while preserving human values, dignity and meaningful relationships.
The second session, “Magnifica Humanitas: A Framework for Catholic Communicators,” was led by Fr. Jovin Sequeira, Assistant Director, Canara Communication Centre. Drawing inspiration from the Vatican document Magnifica Humanitas and the vision of Pope Leo XIV, the session examined the principles of human-centred communication and their practical application in Catholic media. It emphasised the responsibility of communicators to ensure that technological advancements remain at the service of humanity, truth and the Church’s evangelising mission.
Regional Assembly and Deliberations
The Regional Assembly commenced at 12:15 p.m. with prayer and a welcome address by the Secretary, Fr. Roshan D’Souza.
The assembly was presided over by Fr. Richard D’Souza, President of SIGNIS Karnataka. The leadership team comprised Mr. Vincent Mascarenhas, Vice President; Fr. Roshan D’Souza, Secretary; and Fr. Anil Ivan Fernandes, Treasurer.
The assembly was honoured by the presence of Fr. Victor Vijay Lobo, President of SIGNIS India and newly elected President of SIGNIS Asia.
The proceedings included reviewing and approving the minutes of the previous meeting, a membership roll call and accreditation, introducing and approving new members, presenting accounts, and discussing membership.
A significant part of the deliberations focused on SIGNIS Karnataka’s future activities and strategic priorities, including preparations for SINA 2027 and selecting the Lifetime Achievement Award. Members also had the opportunity to present their activities and share initiatives undertaken in their respective areas of Catholic communication.
President’s Address
In his presidential address, Fr. Richard D’Souza highlighted the importance of strengthening SIGNIS Karnataka as a vibrant regional platform for Catholic communication. He emphasised the need for greater member participation, professional collaboration and purposeful initiatives to advance the mission of Catholic media.
He encouraged members to remain committed to the organisation’s vision, actively contribute their expertise and work collectively to respond to the emerging challenges and opportunities in media and communication. The importance of forward planning, strengthening regional activities and preparing for future national and international engagements also formed part of the assembly’s deliberations.
The assembly also heard the address of the SIGNIS India President, Fr. Victor Vijay Lobo, who shared his perspectives on the organisation’s broader mission and the forthcoming SINA 2027.
SIGNIS Karnataka Felicitates Newly Elected SIGNIS Asia President
A special moment of the assembly was the felicitation of Fr. Victor Vijay Lobo on his election as President of SIGNIS Asia.
On behalf of SIGNIS Karnataka, the members felicitated Fr. Victor in recognition of his leadership, contribution to Catholic communication, and achievement at the Asian level. Fr. Anil Ivan Fernandes, Treasurer of SIGNIS Karnataka, read the citation and address of honour, highlighting his journey and commitment to the mission of Catholic media.
Receiving the honour, Fr. Victor expressed his gratitude and emotional connection with SIGNIS Karnataka. Recalling his association with the organisation, he said:
“I cannot forget the roots from where I came. I joined SIGNIS Karnataka as the Director of Canara Communication Centre. I grew with SIGNIS, and I remain deeply grateful for the journey. I am happy and grateful for this honour.”
He expressed his appreciation to the members for their affection and recognition, and shared his vision for his new responsibility as President of SIGNIS Asia. He emphasised his commitment to advancing the mission of SIGNIS across Asia, strengthening collaboration among member countries and promoting meaningful communication in the service of humanity and the Gospel.
The felicitation was a particularly significant moment for SIGNIS Karnataka, as one of its former leaders and members assumed a prestigious leadership responsibility at the Asian level.
Renewing the Mission of Catholic Communication
The Regional Study and Assembly 2026 reaffirmed SIGNIS Karnataka’s commitment to professional excellence, ethical communication, collaboration, and the Church’s evangelizing mission.
The discussions highlighted that while artificial intelligence and digital technologies are transforming the media landscape, the human person must remain at the centre of every communication initiative. Catholic communicators are called not merely to adopt new technologies but to use them responsibly to promote truth, build relationships, foster dialogue and serve society.
The assembly concluded with a vote of thanks, marking a day of meaningful reflection, organisational engagement and renewed commitment to the mission of SIGNIS.
SIGNIS Karnataka continues to move forward with its mission of communicating hope, connecting hearts and transforming lives through the power of responsible and human-centred communication.
