Over two inspiring days, from 18–19 June 2026, communicators from Jesuit ministries across the East Timor Region gathered for the ETR Communications Cluster Meeting. The gathering provided an opportunity to strengthen collaboration, deepen a shared vision for communication, and reflect on how we can more effectively communicate our mission to the public.
Chairing the meeting, and reflecting on the Gospel passage of Mark 16:15, “Go into all the world and proclaim the Good News to the whole creation,” Fr. Erik John J. Gerilla, SJ, Regional Superior of the East Timor Region, reminded participants that communication is far more than producing content or managing social media platforms only as a tool. At its heart, communication is about building meaningful connections, inspiring and educating others, and ultimately helping people encounter God through the stories we share.
“The core mission of sharing news about Jesuits and their ministries is not merely the transmission of information; rather, it is a participation in Christ’s mission—a call to build relationships, shape perspectives, and bring the message of hope to the world”.
Jesus Himself remains the model of authentic communication. As the perfect Communicator, He proclaimed the Good News, healed the broken-hearted, restored human dignity, and brought hope to all whom He encountered. Inspired by His example, communicators today are called to use modern communication platforms as instruments of service, evangelization, and education.
The meeting also featured valuable learning sessions from invited resource persons. Participants expressed their gratitude to Ms. Vanessa, Communications Assistant of the Jesuit Conference of Asia Pacific (JCAP), who joined the gathering online and shared practical insights into Jesuit communications focusing on ‘An Ignatian Perspective On Media Literacy’. Drawing inspiration from one of St. Ignatius of Loyola’s letters to Fr. Peter Faber, she encouraged communicators to improve their writing and approach their work with discernment, purpose, and a spirit of mission, striving to inspire others through their words.
She also highlighted the 35th Jesuit General Congregation’s recommendations on Communications and Technology.
In addition, she shares Father General’s message to Communication delegates from the six Conferences convened at the General Curia on May 19-22, 2026. ‘Fr General reminded the delegates that the work of communication is a ministry of hope which should be transmitted through content that promotes dialogue, interiority and a deeper encounter with Jesus. He concluded by urging the delegates to be innovative as they continue to take up their mission of communication” (source: jesuit.global news/article).
The participants also got an opportunity to learn about technical communication skills and effective social media storytelling and media production from Mana Mildred and Maun Armand of Casa de Produção Audiovisual (CPA) Timor-Leste, which contributed to enhance the participants’ knowledge.’
Another session, led by Kuya Cesar, ETR Development Officer, introduced the principles and practice of Nonviolent Communication. His presentation highlighted the importance of empathy, attentive listening, and respectful dialogue in fostering healthier relationships and more effective communication.
Throughout the two-day gathering, participants shared experiences, exchanged ideas, and explored ways to strengthen collaboration among Jesuit ministries in the region. The meeting reaffirmed the importance of communicating not only with professionalism and creativity but also with a deep sense of mission.
As communicators in the Jesuit tradition, we continue learning, collaborating, and growing together so that every story we tell reflects Gospel values and every message becomes a source of hope for those we serve.
For when Christ is at the heart of our communication, our words do more than inform—they inspire, heal, accompany, and bring people closer to God.
Written by:
Iriana Soares, ETR Communications Officer