Some members of the Catholic Sister Communicators Network, Ghana (CASCON-GH) had the rare opportunity in participating in an online workshop on Crisis Communication organised by the Department of Communications under the International Union of Superiors General (UISG-Rome).
The October 25, 2024 workshop was facilitated by Mrs. Helen Osman, President of the World Catholic Association for Communication (SIGNIS).
The session focused on the importance of effective crisis communication in today’s ecclesial landscape and provided an opportunity to Ghanaian Sister Communicators to engage with various media professionals online which helped to foster international collaboration and share insights.
Digital security refers to a range of tools and methods aimed at safeguarding online identity, data, and assets. This includes resources like web services, antivirus software, smartphone SIM cards, biometrics, and secure personal devices. In simple terms, it is all about the steps and precautions one needs to take to keep his online identity safe.
Mrs. Osman guided participants through key concepts which emphasized the importance of this skill for religious life. She further facilitated discussions on the tools and processes necessary for successful crisis communication, highlighting the significance of planning and implementation.
She therefore urged participants, especially from communication congregations to utilize digital tools for global evangelization.
A critical aspect of the conference was the emphasis on security and safety precautions within apostolic work. Participants were reminded to distinguish their roles from that of journalists, ensuring that their communications prioritize the safety of their congregations and the Church.
Attendees expressed their enthusiasm for the initiative, urging leaders, particularly those of female religious congregations, to embrace opportunities in the media space without fear or hesitation.
The International Union of Superiors General (UISG) is a worldwide, canonically approved organization of Superiors General of Institutes of Catholic Women Religious that provide an International Forum where Superiors General can share experiences, exchange information and mentor one another in their role as leaders.
Sr. Gifty Anastasia Blewu, SMMC (Sister Communicator)