(ANS – Krakow) – In an atmosphere of fraternity, strategic reflection, and deep ecclesial communion, the Regional Meeting of Salesian Social Communication in Europe took place in Krakow, bringing together Provincial Delegates for Social Communication from numerous Salesian provinces across the continent.
Representatives attended from the Provinces of Krakow (PLS), Piła (PLN), Warsaw (PLE), Slovenia (SLO), Croatia (CRO), the Czech Republic (CEP), Malta (MLT), Austria (AUS), Northern Belgium and the Netherlands (BEN), Great Britain (GBR), Germany (GER), Piedmont (ICP), and the Special Circumscription of Rome (ICC).
Also present were Fr. Fidel Orendain, SDB, General Councilor for Social Communication, and Fr. Ricardo Campoli, SDB, a member of the Social Communication Sector and liaison for delegates from the Americas and Europe.
The meeting was held at the Salesian Seminary in Krakow, a formation house and the seat of the provincial offices, providing an ideal setting for an enriching experience of dialogue, collaboration, and discernment.
Communication Rooted in the Eucharist
Each day began with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist alongside Salesians in formation, a concrete reminder that Salesian communication is rooted in listening to the Word of God and fostering a personal encounter with Christ.
In his opening address, Fr. Orendain offered an overview of the current state of Social Communication within the Congregation, drawing on the insights of recent General Chapters, particularly GC29. He encouraged delegates to see communication not merely as a technical or operational field but as a vital dimension of the Salesian mission that animates every aspect of educational and pastoral ministry.
Sharing Experiences and Common Challenges
One of the central moments of the gathering was a session dedicated to presentations from the participating provinces. Delegates shared significant initiatives in digital media, audiovisual production, the formation of young communicators, and social media management.
Alongside these success stories, participants also discussed common challenges, including project sustainability, ongoing professional development, strategic coordination, and the need for a shared vision of Salesian communication throughout Europe.
Artificial Intelligence: Opportunities and Responsibilities
On June 3, participants joined an online presentation by Marcin Dudek, an expert in information technology and artificial intelligence. His presentation explored emerging technologies and highlighted both the opportunities and the ethical responsibilities associated with the use of AI.
A recurring theme throughout the discussion was the importance of ethical discernment. Participants emphasized that digital tools can be valuable resources for education and evangelization when used competently, responsibly, and in fidelity to the Salesian charism.
Later that day, delegates addressed communication during times of crisis. The discussion provided an opportunity to share practical experiences and reflect on the importance of timely, transparent, and coordinated communication strategies.
Digital Projects and a Vision for the Future
On June 4, Fr. Andrei Munteanu, SDB, a member of the Social Communication Sector and director of Don Bosco Online and the Congregation’s official website, presented current projects and future initiatives related to the development of digital tools serving the global Salesian mission.
Fr. Orendain also presented a manifesto developed during the meeting, outlining the convictions and commitments shared by participants as they seek to respond to the cultural and communication challenges facing Europe today.
The meeting concluded with a celebration centered on the Word of God, emphasizing the spiritual dimension of communication as a ministry in service to young people, especially those who are poor and vulnerable.
In Communion with the Newly Beatified
The gathering was further enriched by the recent beatification of the Nine Polish Salesian Martyrs, celebrated on June 6 at the Shrine of St. John Paul II. Participants also attended a special screening of the documentary Passion – The Beginning of Holiness, produced by the Krakow Province, which recounts the journey to martyrdom of Jan Świerc and his companions.
The witness of the newly beatified martyrs served as a powerful reminder of the call to fidelity and integrity, including in the field of communication. Their example challenges communicators to proclaim the Gospel with courage, even in complex or hostile cultural environments.
Building Communion
At the conclusion of the meeting, participants emphasized that Salesian communication is not simply about producing content or managing digital platforms. Rather, it is fundamentally about building communion, supporting one another, and recognizing the signs of hope that God continues to reveal through the mission.
Through the intercession of the newly beatified Jan Świerc and his companions, Salesian communicators across Europe renewed their commitment to proclaiming the Gospel in the digital world and building bridges of encounter in service to young people, in the spirit of Don Bosco.