India’s First Cinematographer Nun to Represent at Vatican’s Global Jubilee Conference

Rome, January 2025 — Sister Lismy Parayil, India’s first cinematographer nun and a celebrated figure in visual media, is set to represent the country at the Vatican’s prestigious Global Jubilee Conference with Religious Sisters on January 23, 2025.

The conference, part of the World of Communications Jubilee, will be held in Rome from January 24 to 26, 2025. Sister Parayil, a member of the Congregation of the Mother of Carmel, has been invited to serve as a panelist at the event, which will bring together communication professionals from around the world.

A Trailblazer in Media and Faith
Known affectionately as the “Camera Nun of India,” Sister Parayil has garnered national and international acclaim for her groundbreaking contributions to visual storytelling. In 2023, she earned a place in the India Book of Records for producing 100 videos within a year, showcasing her dedication to her craft.

At just 39 years old, Sister Parayil’s body of work includes over 1,500 productions, spanning devotional songs, short films, documentaries, and music albums. Her YouTube channel, managed on behalf of her congregation, has surpassed one million views, with hundreds of additional videos available on her personal website.

Balancing her religious vocation with her creative pursuits, Sister Parayil uses her talents to spread messages of faith and hope through the lens of a camera.

Event Highlights
The Global Jubilee Conference aims to celebrate and amplify the role of religious sisters in the media landscape, both traditional and digital. According to Natasa Govekar, director of the theological-pastoral department in the Vatican’s Dicastery for Communication, the event will provide a platform for global practitioners to reflect on contemporary communication challenges and share their experiences.

Organized under Pope Francis’ Jubilee theme, “Pilgrims of Hope,” the conference will kick off on January 22 with visits to significant Catholic sites. Interactive sessions on January 23 will see religious sisters discussing their evolving roles in media and how they kindle hope in today’s world.

A Beacon of Inspiration
Sister Parayil’s participation in this event underscores the significant impact religious sisters have in harnessing media for spiritual and grassroots outreach. Her pioneering efforts continue to inspire audiences in Kerala, India, and beyond, as she bridges faith and media with creativity and purpose.

As the world gathers to explore the intersection of faith and communication, Sister Parayil’s journey stands as a testament to the transformative power of hope conveyed through media.