On March 19, 2025, the Blanquerna Observatory hosted a thought-provoking webinar titled Vulnerability as the Setting for Hope: Three Models of Evangelization for Digital Missionaries from Pope Benedict XVI, featuring Sr. Danielle Victoria Lussier of the Sisters of the Little Way as the key speaker. The event, moderated by Fr. Joby Sebastian Kappipparambil, explored how digital missionaries can navigate the complexities of the online world by embracing vulnerability, a concept deeply rooted in the teachings of Pope Benedict XVI. The event is part of the project on Digital Catholic Influencers that the Observatory is carrying out with the McGrath Institute for Church Life and with the support of Porticus USA.
Sr. Lussier outlined three core models of evangelization: the True Philosopher, the Good Shepherd, and the Good Samaritan, each offering a distinct approach to bearing witness to hope in the digital era. The models emphasize engaging in challenging conversations, offering care and support to the vulnerable, and demonstrating compassion through shared suffering.
The webinar also addressed the church’s ongoing need to rebuild trust, particularly through restorative justice. Sr. Lussier urged the importance of creating spaces for dialogue and understanding in digital platforms, where past wounds could be acknowledged and healing could begin.
Despite the challenges of online criticism and hostility, the discussion underscored the role of digital missionaries in fostering safe and empathetic virtual environments, where spiritual support and connection could thrive. As the church continues to grapple with its digital presence, Sr. Lussier’s insights emphasized the importance of hope and vulnerability in guiding evangelization efforts in the 21st century.