The observation emerged during a panel discussion titled “Media as Mission: Building Safe and Hope-Filled Digital Spaces for the Young in the Spirit of Don Bosco,” held at Siloam, Shillong, as part of the General Body Meeting of BOSCOM. The session was moderated by Leopoldo, a young Salesian Cooperator, along with Vancour Shullai, Assistant Professor at Shillong College and President of the Shillong Salesian Youth Movement (SYM), and Fr C. M. Paul, Vice Principal of Don Bosco College, Siliguri Campus.

Panellists reflected on contemporary patterns of youth engagement on social media, urging Salesians and collaborators to empower young people, enhance their confidence beyond the digital realm, and cultivate a “ministry of presence” within the digital courtyard. The discussion highlighted the importance of accompanying young people online with authenticity, care, and responsibility.

Earlier in the day, during the Eucharistic celebration, Fr Ashley, the Provincial in charge of BOSCOM, reminded delegates that social media must be used to communicate God’s love, not for self-promotion, popularity, or division.

In an online address to the delegates, Fr Biju Michael, Regional Councillor for South Asia, called on BOSCOM to define its role amid the rise of artificial intelligence and the expanding digital environment. He invited communicators to become mentors in the digital space, connecting meaningfully with young people through technology. Quoting Pope Leo on the use of AI in preaching, he stressed that homilies must flow from prayer and personal faith rather than “digital truths,” encouraging delegates to witness through lived faith experiences supported—yet not replaced—by technology.

Fr Biju also expressed appreciation for Ernest Rosario’s leadership as South Asia Communication Delegate and acknowledged the collective efforts of BOSCOM members over the years.

During the business session, delegates discussed and ratified a manifesto prepared by the provinces under the guidance of Fr Fidel Orendain, General Councillor for Social Communication. Plans for the coming year were finalised, and members resolved that the BOSCOM General Body Meeting would henceforth be held once every three years.