How Are Pastoral Workers in Uttarakhand Learning to Use AI for Mission?

Nearly 65 pastoral workers from nine dioceses participated in a two-day annual training programme in Kotdwar, Uttarakhand, focusing on missionary renewal, artificial intelligence and the message of Mission Sunday 2026. The programme was organised by the Agra Regional Commission for Proclamation and the Pontifical Mission Organisations and hosted by the Diocese of Bijnor. Diocesan directors, priests, religious sisters, lay faithful, youth and catechists took part in the training. Bishop Louis Mascarenhas, chairman of the regional commission, Bishop Vincent Nellaiparambil of Bijnor and Bishop Emeritus John Vadakel were present during the programme. Focus on Missionary Renewal During the inauguration, Bishop Vincent encouraged participants to become active builders of the Kingdom of God. Bishop Louis called on them to take the knowledge gained during the programme back to their dioceses and develop practical pastoral initiatives. Regional Secretary Fr. Joy Rodrigues coordinated the programme and presented the theme and message of Mission Sunday 2026. He also encouraged participants to prepare personal action plans for applying what they learned in their own pastoral settings. Exploring AI in Pastoral Ministry Fr. Thomas Antony, O.Praem, a media professional, served as the principal resource person. His sessions focused on contemporary communication and the responsible evaluation and use of artificial intelligence in pastoral ministry. Participants received practical training in creating pastoral posters, images and video content using digital tools such as ChatGPT, Gemini, Claude, Gamma, Canva and Google Flow. The sessions provided pastoral workers with an opportunity to explore how emerging technologies can support communication and ministry while considering the importance of responsible use. Connecting Technology With Mission The training combined reflection on missionary work with practical digital skills. Participants were encouraged to consider how new communication technologies can be used in pastoral settings while remaining connected to the Church's evangelising mission. The programme also sought to help participants take their learning back to their respective dioceses and apply it through concrete pastoral initiatives. Hosted by the Diocese of Bijnor, the programme was supported by diocesan directors Fr. Benny Thekkekara, Fr. Linto and Fr. Sebastian Mathew. The gathering highlighted the growing role of digital communication in pastoral ministry and provided participants with both spiritual reflection and practical tools for engaging with today's changing communication environment.