In a remarkable convergence of faith and digital influence, the upcoming World Youth Day in Lisbon, Portugal, will serve as the backdrop for the first-ever world in-person meeting of Catholic social media influencers and missionaries. The event is part of the "The Church listens to you" initiative, a response by digital missionaries to Pope Francis' call for the Church to conduct the Synod of Synodality, extending it to the digital realm.
Scheduled for August 4th, immediately following the Via Crucis event of the 2023 World Youth Day, influencers from all corners of the globe are invited to gather in Martim Moniz Square in Lisbon. This specially designed area will provide the perfect setting for Catholic social media influencers, podcasters, and YouTubers to come together and celebrate the monumental missionary work they undertake daily.
In the press communiqué issued on Friday, July 7th, the initiative was explained to be a celebration and expression of gratitude for these digital missionaries who, through their social media platforms, transmit the Gospel and embody the spirit of evangelization in a digital age. The event presents an opportunity to extend Pope Francis' call for synodality into the digital space, recognizing the significant role these influencers play in shaping the faith landscape of the modern world.
During the Festival and Meeting, participants will have the chance to share their testimonies, experiences, and music, fostering a sense of community and collaboration among these digital personalities from all continents. The Festival is set to feature renowned names in the Catholic digital sphere, including the Hakuna Group Music from Spain, Father Rob Galea from Australia, Pitter Di Laura, and Missionarios Shalom from Brazil, and Pablo Martínez from Argentina, all of whom have already confirmed their attendance.
As the World Youth Day unfolds from August 1st to 6th, thousands of young Catholics from across the globe will gather in Lisbon, and this momentous gathering of digital influencers further enriches the spiritual atmosphere. With the Church embracing the digital age, it recognizes the vital role that social media influencers play in reaching and connecting with the youth.
The meeting is a recognition of the profound impact that these Catholic influencers have on their audiences, extending their influence beyond the traditional boundaries of parish communities. Through their podcasts, YouTube channels, and social media platforms, they provide a virtual space for dialogue, prayer, and reflection, making the Gospel accessible and relatable to a global audience.
As we move forward into the digital era, the synergy between faith and technology continues to evolve, opening up new avenues for evangelization and dialogue. The meeting of these global Catholic social media influencers during World Youth Day is an exciting step in bridging the gap between traditional practices and contemporary means of spreading the message of love, faith, and hope.
The Festival and Meeting promise to be a joyful celebration of faith, creativity, and unity, bringing together influencers who are dedicated to sharing the teachings of Christ and inspiring others on their spiritual journeys. With the shared mission of promoting love, compassion, and understanding, these influencers embrace the opportunity to build a community that transcends geographical boundaries and serves as a beacon of hope in the digital realm.
As the world witnesses the convergence of faith and digital influence in Lisbon, this historic gathering of Catholic social media influencers marks a significant chapter in the Church's commitment to engaging with the modern world and carrying the message of God's love to all corners of the globe.
