The Vatican is set to convene a groundbreaking gathering in Rome this week aimed at revitalizing outreach to younger generations through popular social media platforms.

According to the New York Post, Organizers will welcome over 1,000 clergy members—including several online-famous priests—at a major conference focused on enhancing the Catholic Church's digital presence as part of a broader effort to counter declining attendance among younger worshippers.

Scheduled for Monday, the event in Rome will bring together priests, friars, and digital missionaries to discuss effective ways of spreading religious messages in an increasingly online world. Vatican officials are banking on modern communication to re-engage younger Catholics and reverse dwindling participation.

Influencer priests bring style to spirituality

A standout feature of the summit is the inclusion of charismatic clergy with substantial social media followings. Among them is Father Giuseppe Fusari, a 58-year-old priest from Brescia, Italy, who has garnered more than 60,000 Instagram followers by blending spiritual messages with a unique online persona. His posts feature reflections on the gospel, personal life insights, and photographs that highlight his tattooed physique.

Fusari believes digital engagement can be a powerful draw. “I hope it will bring people closer to the church,” he said, pointing to the curiosity sparked by his social presence. “I am convinced that social media is one way to attract people.”

Fusari’s account appeals mostly to users aged 25 to 55. His strategy aligns with the Vatican’s interest in exploring fresh avenues for evangelization through everyday platforms like Instagram and TikTok.

Expanding the Church’s voice through TikTok

Another high-profile participant is Father Cosimo Schena, 46, of Brindisi, widely considered one of Italy’s most emotionally resonant clergymen online. Often referred to as the country’s most beloved priest, Schena has captured the hearts of more than 454,000 Instagram followers.

Known for his encouraging posts, manicured beard, and warm smile, Schena’s reach has expanded significantly since he began using TikTok. His positive messages on faith, life, and kindness have attracted users seeking hope and comfort in an often turbulent digital landscape.

Beyond inspiration, he is also an advocate for pet adoption. Schena frequently appears in videos and photos with his rescue dog, Storm—a beagle who has become a familiar presence to his followers.

Contemporary image blends with Catholic tradition

Father Ambrogio Mazza, 34, adds another modern voice to the Church’s social media efforts. With more than 460,000 followers across platforms, Mazza mixes lifestyle content with messages of faith, presenting a Catholic image that resonates with contemporary audiences.

He is known for his poetic reflections, guitar performances, and love of cycling. Admirers often comment on his stylish appearance, with one online user stating, “What a beautiful guy our Father is.”

Another commenter echoed similar sentiments, writing, “You are very beautiful and elegant.” Mazza’s dual role as an artistic young priest and spiritual guide exemplifies the Church’s evolving digital strategy.

Social media strategy guided by Church leaders

This digital push builds on the direction established by Pope Francis and advanced by his successor, Pope Leo XIV. Since taking office, Pope Leo has continued to prioritize social platforms, regularly posting to his nearly 19 million followers on X, formerly known as Twitter.

The Vatican sees social media not just as a tool for communication but as a mission field in itself. The upcoming conference is part of a coordinated attempt to equip clergy with the skills to minister effectively online while maintaining doctrinal integrity.

The Church’s use of digital aesthetics is not new. In 2022, a calendar featuring strikingly attractive priests was released as a way to connect faith with visual appeal, reflecting the Vatican's continued interest in how image and message work together.

Youth engagement is a growing necessity

The conference responds to a broader trend of declining church attendance among young adults, particularly in Western countries. Though fewer people attend traditional services, the number of believers following religious content online is on the rise.

By involving tech-savvy and visually relatable priests, the Vatican is attempting to reframe the way faith is presented to younger generations—less formal, more personal, and accessible through familiar platforms.

The initiative seeks to foster genuine connection while preserving the core teachings of the Church, aiming to translate age-old theology into a language and format that today’s youth can embrace.

Rome event signals new chapter in faith outreach

Monday’s gathering in Rome could signal a pivotal transformation in how the Catholic Church positions itself in a fast-evolving digital world. With a focus on strategy, talent, and relevance, organizers hope to build a bridge between tradition and technology.

By empowering priests with established online followings, the Church may be able to inject new vitality into its global outreach and foster deeper relationships with younger Catholics who consume religious content on their phones rather than in pews.

The Vatican’s efforts suggest that in a time of rapid change, ancient traditions can still inspire—if told in a voice the next generation can hear, scroll, and follow.