Meet the Digital Missionaries Opening New Doors to the Church

The Catholic Church of Philadelphia has launched a team of digital missionaries to reach people through social media and online platforms. Part of Archbishop Nelson J. Pérez’s Trust and Hope initiative, the team uses tools like Instagram reels and videos to connect with individuals in their digital environments.

Digital Missionary Hub director John Cardone, along with missionaries Morgan Hurlock and Chisom “Chiz” Ogbodo, works to transition online viewers into active members of faith communities. Cardone stated that while the digital world often serves as a front door, the objective is to help people build real relationships with Jesus Christ and the Church.

The team's work includes highlighting local sites, such as a recent Instagram video showcasing the Sacré Coeur Perpetual Adoration Chapel at St. Denis Church in Havertown. This digital outreach mirrors the work of the five physical missionary hubs that serve local communities in person.