NISCORT - CCBI Media Host Weeklong PR Training Programme

Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, April 5, 2025 — A Public Relations (PR) training programme aimed at equipping Church communication personnel with essential PR skills was recently held at NISCORT Media College, Ghaziabad. Organised in collaboration with the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CCBI), the training brought together diocesan PROs and media representatives of various religious congregations. It was a structured, hands-on learning experience.

Facilitated by Fr. (Dr.) Cyril Victor Joseph, Fr. Robin, and Fr. Biju— experts in media, communication, and ecclesial PR—the programme offered participants an in-depth exploration of public relations, with a special focus on Church communication and media ministry.

Each day focused on a key component of PR, including "Fundamentals of PR in Church Settings", "Duties and Skills of PRO", "Crisis Communications", "Civil Communications" and "Public Speaking".

Fr. Cyril shared deep insights into Church communication strategies and the theological foundations of PR. Fr. Robin emphasised the ethical and pastoral dimensions of public relations, drawing from his experience in grassroots communication and community outreach. Fr. Biju highlighted the art of public speaking coupled with practical exercises.

Fr. Cyril, Fr. Robin and Fr. Biju employed a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, group activities, interactive discussions, multimedia presentations, role-plays, simulations, and real-life case studies during the training. Participants gained hands-on experience in crafting press releases, delivering impactful speeches, managing crisis communication, and developing strategic communication plans aligned with Church values.

The workshop significantly enhanced participants’ understanding of PR, particularly in the context of the Church’s evangelising and pastoral mission. Attendees reported improved writing and communication skills, greater confidence in media engagement, and increased competence in planning and managing Church events. They also gained a deeper awareness of the ethical responsibilities of ecclesial communicators.

Participants praised the clarity, depth, and practical orientation of the sessions, describing the experience as both “eye-opening” and “highly relevant”. Many emphasised its timeliness in responding to the Church’s growing need for effective media engagement. The expertise, patience, and approachability of Frs. Cyril, Robin, and Biju were widely appreciated, along with their ability to foster an inclusive and encouraging learning environment.

The PR training marked a significant step toward strengthening communication practices within the Church. Informative and formative, it empowered participants to serve more effectively as communicators and ambassadors of the Church in today’s dynamic media landscape.

By Fr. Alexander Gurung,

Diocese of Darjeeling