Influencer Priests: Evangelizing Through Social Media in the Digital Age

In a significant shift within the Catholic Church, a new generation of priests is using social media platforms to spread the Gospel, merging traditional religious teachings with contemporary digital engagement. This movement has gained momentum under the leadership of Pope Francis, who has emphasized the importance of digital evangelization, particularly in light of the global pandemic that has reshaped how communities connect.

On July 28-29, 2025, Rome will host the first global gathering of social media missionaries, where 1,000 priests and friars will convene as part of a jubilee celebration designed to reflect on faith and community engagement. This initiative highlights the church’s adaptation to modern communication trends, aiming to attract younger audiences through relatable content and innovative approaches.

Among those leading this digital evangelization is Father Cosimo Schena, a priest from San Francesco Church in Brindisi, Italy, who has amassed over 450,000 followers on Instagram. Known as "the poet of God’s love," Schena utilizes poetry, artistic expression, and personal anecdotes, often featuring his two dogs in relatable posts that resonate with a wide audience. In a recent statement, Schena reflected on the impact of his work, stating, "I get lots of messages from people seeking help and comfort, and not just from those who believe in God." This approach has not only garnered him a substantial following but has also encouraged attendance at his masses from individuals across Italy and beyond.

Father Giuseppe Fusari, a tattooed priest from Brescia, is another notable figure in this movement, creatively merging his interests in art history and bodybuilding to share God’s messages on social media. His innovative content aims to connect with the youth by presenting faith in an accessible and engaging manner. Stefano Maria Bordignon, known online as FraStefano, uses YouTube to provide daily gospel commentary, reminiscent of attending mass, with the Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera noting that "following him is like going to mass every day."

These influencer priests emphasize brevity and relatability in their messaging. Father Ambrogio Mazzai, who shares reflections alongside images of guitar playing and casual settings, stated, "You have to communicate concisely and in a way that attracts attention – so no great long sermons." This sentiment encapsulates the ethos of many contemporary religious figures who prioritize engaging content over traditional preaching styles.

The Vatican’s initiative aligns with broader trends in digital communication, where traditional institutions are increasingly recognizing the need to adapt to the evolving landscape of social media. According to Dr. Maria Rossi, a sociologist at the University of Rome, "The church’s engagement with social media is an acknowledgment of the changing dynamics of faith and community. It reflects a strategic move to reach younger generations who are more comfortable with digital interactions than traditional forms of communication."

This digital jubilee not only represents a new chapter for religious outreach but also poses questions about the future of faith in an increasingly secular world. The blending of online platforms with spiritual narratives may redefine how faith communities engage with both believers and non-believers. As these influencer priests gather in Rome, their collective mission could signal a transformative moment for Catholicism in the 21st century, with implications that extend beyond the church to influence societal views on spirituality and community.

In conclusion, the emergence of influencer priests marks a significant evolution in how religious messages are communicated in the digital age. As the church embraces this new paradigm, it will be imperative to monitor how these efforts impact community engagement, religious participation, and the broader cultural landscape of faith in the modern world.