Led by the Jesuits in Britain Communications team, the programme combined presentations, group discussions and hands-on activities, giving delegates opportunities to share experiences, exchange ideas and consider how digital communications can support the mission of their parishes.
Delegates explored how to make better use of websites, newsletters and social media, gaining up-to-date insights and practical tips to improve their communications, strengthen relationships with parishioners and reach new audiences. They also discussed the opportunities and risks offered by emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), alongside ways to keep online spaces safe. The focus throughout was practical: making the most of the tools parishes already have, while recognising the challenges of managing communications alongside other pastoral responsibilities.
One of the practical highlights was a video-making exercise in which delegates worked in groups, taking on different roles to plan and film short videos. These were then screened and discussed by the wider group, offering an opportunity to reflect on storytelling, audience engagement and the use of video in parish communications.
Beyond the formal sessions, the conference provided valuable opportunities for representatives from different Jesuit parishes to get to know one another, share experiences and learn from the work taking place in their respective communities. Each morning began with prayer, and on Tuesday evening delegates gathered for Mass led by Fr Peter O’Sullivan SJ.
Sr Alicia fcJ, Chaplain at Manchester Universities Catholic Chaplaincy, reflected on the importance of choosing appropriate ways to communicate with the communities they serve.
“As chaplains and pastoral teams, we must discern which channels are most appropriate to listen to the needs of our communities, to serve them, and to serve God in them.”
She also welcomed the opportunity to connect with others working across the Jesuit network.
“An added gift of this conference was the opportunity to connect with the wider Jesuit family and to share insights, experiences, hope, and joy.”
Patrick Jamieson, from St Aloysius’ Parish in Glasgow and the youngest delegate at the conference, highlighted the value of learning from other parishes.
“The conference provided us at St Aloysius Parish an opportunity to learn how we can improve our communication with parishioners via social media and other services. We were also able to learn from other Jesuit Parishes from all across the UK and I believe we all will take these skills and do some great things with them. All for the greater glory of God.”
Maria Fernanda Lopez, Head of Media & Communications at Jesuits in Britain, reflected on the important work taking place across the parish network and how digital communications can help parishes share their stories.
“It was encouraging to hear about the many ways our Jesuit parishes serve their diverse communities, from sharing Ignatian spirituality to supporting those who are most vulnerable. We know that keeping up with changing technology can be challenging, especially for busy parish teams juggling many responsibilities. We hope the practical skills and knowledge shared during this training will help them feel more confident using digital communications to tell their stories, strengthen connections with existing parishioners and reach those who may not yet know what our communities have to offer.”
Br Ken Vance SJ, Province Delegate for Pastoral Ministries, explained that the autumn training seminars have become an annual opportunity for Jesuit parishes to come together, with previous sessions covering subjects including safeguarding and team personality profiles.
Reflecting on this year’s conference, he said:
“In an engaging and enjoyable manner, the mysteries of AI and the various social platforms were explained and explored.”
He added:
“Our parishes may never be the same again.”
To find out more about Jesuit parishes across Britain and the communities they serve, visit our Parishes and Outreach page, where you can also find links to individual parish websites.
