The Apostolic Nuncio to Japan urged Catholic communicators to “reflect from the heart,” echoing Pope Francis’ call for ethical engagement with technology and artificial intelligence (AI).
“To foster truly human communication, we must reflect from the heart, seizing the benevolent opportunities modern technology offers while avoiding its dangers,” said Archbishop Francisco Escalante Molina.
The prelate made the statement during the SIGNIS Asia Assembly 2024 (SAA2024), which was held in Tokyo, Japan, from September 23 to 27.
“Human communication should awaken in us a deep sensitivity,” he told around 70 delegates from 12 countries attending the event, which was themed “Human Communication in the Digital World for a Culture of Peace.”
The assembly, organized by SIGNIS Asia and SIGNIS Japan, highlighted the role of digital technology in fostering peace and building a culture rooted in truth.
Fr. Stanley Kozhichira, President of SIGNIS Asia, and Itaru Tsuchiya, President of SIGNIS Japan, welcomed the participants, setting the tone for the gathering.
In his video message, Dr. Paolo Ruffini, Prefect of the Dicastery for Communication, emphasized the global Church’s responsibility in navigating the digital age.
Helen Osman, President of SIGNIS World, also delivered a video message, further underscoring the theme of peace-building through communication.
Bishop Paul Toshihiro Sakai, the keynote speaker, stressed the importance of truth in the digital world. “Communicate the truth,” he urged the delegates.
As the advisory bishop to SIGNIS Japan and head of communications for the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Japan, Bishop Sakai emphasized Japan’s role in promoting human values and solidarity through digital communication tools.
The assembly’s first panel discussion, moderated by Melissa Fernando, brought together diverse perspectives from youth, women, and lay professionals.
Panelists Naoki Nakanishi Fernandes, Makoto Yamada, Kazue Suzuki, and Ryu Suzuki shared their experiences in using digital platforms to foster peace in a globally connected world.
Bishop Linus Seong-hyo Lee of Korea emphasized the role of journalists in shaping communication during a session on AI.
He noted that, “The heart of information is people, not the shock and awe they bring to their leaders,” highlighting the importance of people-centered communication in the AI-driven world.
Workshops on AI for faith-based missions and innovative communication approaches were held on the second day of the assembly.
Mennen Aracid introduced various AI technologies and resources designed to enhance the efficiency of faith-based outreach.
Fr. Arun D’Souza Prakash’s session on the Ignatian Pedagogical Paradigm—context, experience, reflection, action, and evaluation—offered participants a practical framework for integrating peace-building into communication strategies.
A key highlight of the assembly was the evening film screenings. The first film, Water, Not Weapons – The Greening of Afghanistan, told the story of Dr. Tetsu Nakamura, a Japanese physician who dedicated his life to transforming Afghanistan’s desert regions through water conservation.
The second film, The Face of the Faceless, directed by Shaison P. Ouseph, narrated the inspiring story of Sr. Rani Maria, an Indian martyr whose legacy of mercy, forgiveness, love, and sacrifice continues to inspire.
The assembly concluded with the adoption of the assembly’s statement, calling for the responsible use of digital media to foster dialogue, unity, and peace.
SIGNIS, or the World Catholic Association for Communication, is recognized by the Vatican as an International Association of the Faithful with the mission to “help transform cultures in the light of the Gospel by promoting human dignity, justice, and reconciliation.”
It has consultative status with UNESCO, the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations, in Geneva and New York, and the Council of Europe.