More than 700 people from across Asia and other parts of the world joined an online forum on July 25 to reflect on Pope Leo XIV's first encyclical, Magnifica Humanitas, exploring how Christians can uphold human dignity in an age shaped by technology, social isolation, and rapid change.
Titled "Magnifica Humanitas: Rediscovering the Beauty of Our Shared Humanity," the webinar was organized by the Philippine Mission of the Dominican Sisters of Charity of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary. It brought together clergy, religious, educators, young people, and lay leaders for prayer, reflection, and dialogue.
The keynote address was delivered by Fr. Kasmir Nema, SVD, general coordinator for communications of the Society of the Divine Word Generalate in Rome.
Drawing on Pope Leo XIV's encyclical, Fr. Nema reflected on the opportunities and challenges presented by technological advancement. While acknowledging that technology has made communication easier and connected people across borders, he cautioned that it can also contribute to loneliness, division, and weakened human relationships if not guided by ethical responsibility.
He urged participants to ensure that technology serves the human person rather than diminishing human dignity, emphasizing that innovation must always promote the common good and authentic human flourishing.
A panel of speakers then explored how the encyclical's message can be applied in everyday life.
Sr. Deepa Moonjely, OP, who serves in the congregation's mission in Indonesia, highlighted the importance of compassionate presence and genuine relationships in Christian ministry. She said technology can support communication but can never replace human wisdom, attentive listening, and personal accompaniment.
Argie Ferrer, coordinator for religious affairs at the University of Perpetual Help in the Philippines, emphasized that education should form people of integrity and compassion, enabling them to make responsible decisions and contribute to society with respect for the dignity of every person.
Representing the perspective of young people, Adonis Evan Basa Jr., charter president of the Rotaract Club of San Juan and former national socius of the Dominican Network Youth Group of the Philippines, encouraged participants to use digital platforms to foster inclusion, justice, and community rather than division and polarization.
During the open forum, participants discussed human dignity, communication, mission, and the ethical use of technology. They were also invited to make a personal commitment by identifying one concrete way to live out the message of Magnifica Humanitas through acts such as listening more attentively, reaching out to those who feel isolated, using social media responsibly, and treating others with greater respect.
In her closing remarks, Sr. Anula Irvin Suguna, OP, a general councilor of the Dominican Sisters of Charity of the Presentation based in Rome, urged participants to translate the encyclical's message into daily life.
She said the principles of Magnifica Humanitas should be reflected not only in discussion but also in the way people communicate, serve others, and build relationships rooted in respect and compassion.
The webinar concluded with a Prayer for Humanity, reaffirming the participants' commitment to promoting human dignity, dialogue, and compassionate service in response to Pope Leo XIV's call to recognize the beauty of humanity shared by all people.
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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