From January 23 to 26th, 2025 the Media Office of the Latin Patriarchate took part in a transformative three-day initiative for Young Professional Communicators, organized by the Dicastery for Communication of the Holy See in Rome, as part of the Jubilee of the World of Communications. Nicolawos Hazboun, a 25-year-old multimedia officer, and Miral Atik, a 24-year-old media officer, were selected to represent the Latin Patriarchate and travel from Bethlehem to Rome. They joined 130 communicators from 70 countries in this special program, aimed at fostering global collaboration among faith communicators and empowering them to spread hope, truth, and faith through digital platforms. 

The initiative offered a blend of public and private events designed to strengthen the sense of community among communicators while exploring the role of digital communication in creating change. Participants engaged in dynamic activities, interactive discussions, and keynote speeches, all rooted in the values of hope and faith. 

The program was built around the concept of the "four doors"—Vocation, Impact, Narratives, and Community—guiding participants through a journey of personal and professional growth. The first day began with a penitential liturgy and an International Mass at St. John Lateran Basilica, honoring St. Francis de Sales, the patron saint of journalists. The next day included an early pilgrimage to the Holy Door of St. Peter’s Basilica, followed by a cultural gathering at Paul VI Audience Hall, where Mr. Paolo Ruffini, Prefect of the Dicastery for Communication, spoke on the importance of renewing communication’s roots in hope and human connection amidst the rise of technology. 

One of the highlights of the program was a powerful speech by Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Maria Ressa, who warned about the dangers of technology-driven disinformation, which undermines trust and democracy. She emphasized that "hope is not passive; it’s active, relentless, and strategic" and called on communicators to collaborate, take action, and restore integrity in a fractured world. 

Another memorable moment came from Colum McCann a best-selling author from Ireland and the co-founder of the global organization Narrative 4, whose address, "A Pilgrimage of Repair," highlighted the power of storytelling in bridging divides and restoring empathy. He stressed that ignoring others' stories leads to the erosion of community and called for grassroots initiatives that prioritize human connection and understanding. "The shortest distance between being an enemy or a neighbor is a story," McCann said. 

The event culminated in a special meeting with His Holiness Pope Francis, who blessed the over 10,000 communicators in attendance and encouraged them to engage in "communication capable of speaking to the heart," emphasizing hope, unity, and respect. He expressed his vision for communication that brings us together as “fellow travelers,” reminding participants that through "gentleness and reverence," they can highlight stories of hope in challenging times and “make known the many stories of goodness hidden in the folds of the news.” 

Throughout the three days, Nicolawos and Miral had the privilege of learning from seasoned professionals like Eli Pariser, Paterno Esmaquel II, and Chris Walter. They also participated in storytelling workshops led by Narrative 4, an organization founded by Colum McCann, which focused on the healing power of shared personal narratives. 

Reflecting on the experience, Nicolawos Hazboun shared, "It was truly inspiring to connect with young Christian journalists from around the world and learn about their media work within the Church. The conference provided invaluable insights into new methods and theories for conveying the Church's message through various forms of media." 

Miral Atik shared, "This experience was incredibly transformative, strengthening my faith in the impact we as communicators can have in spreading truth, humanity, and hope in a world that often tries to suppress the light. Listening to both seasoned professionals and passionate young communicators inspired me with fresh ideas to enhance my work in the Diocese of Jerusalem. Step by step, we are weaving the digital world into a space where humanity reconnects to serve the greater good of all." 

As the program came to a close, both Nicolawos and Miral returned to their work in Bethlehem with a renewed sense of purpose and a deeper understanding of the vital role they play in the global communication of faith. Their journey in Rome was not just an opportunity for professional development but a reaffirmation of the power of storytelling and digital media in spreading hope across the world.