Indian Catholic Journalists Reflect on Humanity, Truth and Journalism in the AI Age

More than 100 Catholic journalists, writers and media professionals gathered in Bengaluru for the 31st National Convention of Christian Journalists and Annual General Body Meeting of the Indian Catholic Press Association (ICPA) held on September 19–20. Hosted at Paalana Bhavana, the convention focused on the theme “Humanity, Dignity and Truth: Journalism Without Compromise in the Age of AI.” The gathering examined the opportunities and challenges created by artificial intelligence and stressed the continuing importance of human judgment, compassion and ethical responsibility in journalism. The convention was inaugurated by Archbishop Peter Machado of Bengaluru, who described journalism as more than a profession, presenting it as a vocation rooted in truth and service. He cautioned journalists against excessive dependence on technology and commercial pressures and encouraged them to preserve their independence and human sensitivity. The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Vinod Jose, former editor of The Caravan. Drawing on his experience as a Catholic journalist, he highlighted the responsibility of Christian communicators to give a voice to people who are often unheard. He also noted that the growing capabilities of AI make investigative journalism and independent interpretation increasingly important. Fr. Suresh Mathew OFM Cap., in his presidential address, highlighted the importance of verification in the digital age. Referring to a recent controversy involving allegations against a Catholic nun in Kerala that circulated on social media, he stressed that journalists should verify information before publication and protect the dignity of individuals and institutions. A panel discussion moderated by Fr. Cedric Prakash SJ explored what artificial intelligence cannot replace in journalism. Participants included transgender rights activist Akkai Padmashali, journalist Maya Sharma, The Indian Express Deputy Editor Liz Mathew, and Fr. Joshan Rodrigues, editor of The Examiner. The panel emphasized the importance of empathy, sensitivity, curiosity, courage and lived human experience. Speakers noted that while AI can process large amounts of information, journalists remain responsible for understanding people's experiences and reporting stories with fairness and sensitivity. The convention also reflected on the history and contribution of the ICPA, which was established in 1963. A theme book titled Humanity, Dignity and Truth: Journalism Without Compromise in the Age of AI was released during the gathering. Participants also discussed recent Church guidance concerning artificial intelligence, including Pope Leo XIV’s encyclical Magnifica Humanitas and his message for the 60th World Day of Social Communications. These reflections focused on protecting human dignity, addressing bias and ensuring that technology remains at the service of humanity. The convention concluded with the presentation of annual ICPA awards recognizing contributions to Catholic journalism, media, social justice and environmental communication. Among those recognized were Prof. Dr. Ignatius Gonsalves, Fr. George Kaitholil SSP, Liz Mathew, Gladson Dungdung, Fr. G. Arockia Sebastian Babu, M. D. Vincent and Fr. Hedwig Louis SJ. The gathering concluded with a renewed call for journalists to approach the changing media landscape with compassion, courage and commitment, while keeping truth, human dignity and the experiences of vulnerable communities at the centre of journalism.