By Shivonne Prevena
KUALA LUMPUR – Communicators, creatives, media practitioners, and parish ministry members from across the Archdiocese of Kuala Lumpur gathered at the Church of St Anthony for the annual G.E.M.A. Mass and fellowship in celebration of the 60th World Day of Social Communications.
G.E.M.A., which stands for Gathering of Everyone in Media and Communications Apostolate, takes its name from the Bahasa Malaysia word gema (echo), reflecting the call to echo Christ’s message of faith, hope, and love through communications.
The day began with Mass presided over by Archbishop Julian Leow, followed by fellowship and networking. In a special video message, Fr Dr Clarence Devadass, Ecclesiastical Assistant of the Archdiocese Social Communications Ministry, who was away in Sandakan, encouraged communicators to use their gifts to foster encounter, build community, and communicate hope in today’s digital world.
Archbishop Julian highlighted the importance of truth, integrity, and responsibility in communication. He reminded participants that while technology and artificial intelligence continue to transform the media landscape, authentic human voices and relationships must remain at the heart of every message.
The gathering also showcased several initiatives of the Archdiocese Social Communications Ministry, including the ongoing Faces of Love campaign, which honours individuals who have touched lives and strengthened the Church through personal stories and testimonies.
An upcoming photography formation session was also announced as part of the ministry’s commitment to nurturing communication talents within the Archdiocese.
Participants were also introduced to the upcoming #MyChurch competition, inviting parishioners across the archdiocese to creatively share stories of faith, traditions, and parish life through digital media, with prizes of up to RM1,000 to be won.
More than a celebration, G.E.M.A. affirmed the vital role communicators play in the Church’s mission, recognising the contributions of writers, photographers, videographers, designers, social media teams, and communications professionals in spreading the Gospel through modern means. – Herald Malaysia
