Bangalore 25 October 2022 (CCBI): Archbishop of Bengaluru Dr Peter Machado has stated that the role of the PROs is like water pipe bringing information to people. The PRO ministry in the church should be honest, transparent and reachable.
He was speaking at the inaugural function of the Public Relations training program that is being organized by CCBI Media Apostolate in collaboration with Signis India on Tuesday 25 October, 2022. The National level event is being held at the Archbishops campus here, at Paalanaa Bhavana. Burning topics related to the current scenario and the role of Catholics are also being discussed during the training program.
“Role of the PROs is very important for every institution as in public domain anything can happen hence, relations with entities, bodies and individuals are of utmost importance,” said the Prelate.
Over 50 PROs, media professionals and communication heads from dioceses and religious congregations from across India comprising of vicar generals, priests, nuns and lay persons are taking part in the three-day programme where the PROs will be trained in honing the skills and strengthen the inter religious ties between Christians and people of other religions.
Noted media professionals from across the nation namely Fr Stephen Alathara, Deputy Secretary General, CCBI Fr Babu Joseph, SVD former secretary to Catholic Bishops Conference of India, Fr Stanley Kozichira, president of Signis Asia, noted journalist and editor of Indian Catholic Matters Verghese Joseph, Nolan Pinto, Bansi Kalappa and others will be rendering important training through talks and presentations that are aimed at strengthening the PROs from across the nation.
Archbishop Peter Machado also insisted that the PR office/cell is not only needed for the bishops conference or a diocese, if need be every institution should cater to this important aspect as the country is getting advanced and press/media is becoming complicated.
Various topics like media management, interaction on various media platforms, panel discussions etc would be held in the three day program. Fr Vijay Victor Lobo, National Secretary, Signis India, Fr Cyril Victor, Coordinator of CCBI Media Apostolate and Director Paalanaa Bhavana and team have organized the programme which will conclude on Thursday 27 October, 2022.
Rev. Dr. Cyril Victor
Coordinator, CCBI Media Apostolate