The Catholic Diocese of Barishal in southern Bangladesh observed the 60th World Communications Day on May 16 under the theme “Preserving Human Voices and Faces,” bringing together 53 participants from youth and student organizations.
The one-day program was organized by the diocesan Social Communications Commission at Our Lady of Guidance Church, in Padrishibpur, a rural Catholic community in Bangladesh’s southern coastal region.
Participants included members of the Bangladesh Christian Students Movement, the parish Youth Association, and Young Christian Students.
During the program, commission member Joseph Ruben Dewri reflected on the theme inspired by the message of Leo XIV for this year’s observance.
“In this technological age, although people are becoming closer to machines and devices, they are gradually moving away from heartfelt human connection,” Dewri said. “Human emotions, voices, and even thoughts are increasingly becoming dependent on technology.”
Quoting the pope’s message, he added: “The human face and voice are not merely biological features; they are God-given signs of dignity, relationship, and love.” He urged participants to use communication responsibly and meaningfully.
One participant said the program offered valuable lessons beyond journalism and media work.
“Even if we do not pursue journalism as a profession, the knowledge and skills we gained here will surely benefit us in different areas of our daily lives,” she said.
The Holy Eucharist was celebrated by Fr. Lawrence Lecavali Gomes, coordinator of the diocesan Communications Commission. Fr. Gourab J. Pathang, CSC, a commission member and assistant parish priest of Padrishibpur Parish, concelebrated the Mass.
As part of the observance, organizers also held a tree-planting initiative to promote care for creation. Participants pledged to plant at least two trees during the year.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Fr. Samir D’Rozario, CSC, parish priest of Padrishibpur Parish.
Organizers said the program encouraged reflection on responsible communication, human dignity, and environmental stewardship while strengthening unity among young Catholics in the diocese.
Radio Veritas Asia (RVA), a media platform of the Catholic Church, aims to share Christ. RVA started in 1969 as a continental Catholic radio station to serve Asian countries in their respective local language, thus earning the tag “the Voice of Asian Christianity.” Responding to the emerging context, RVA embraced media platforms to connect with the global Asian audience via its 21 language websites and various social media platforms.
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