Address Of The Holy Father Leo XIV To The Representatives Of The Media
Good morning, and thank you for the warm welcome!
They say applause at the beginning is nice, but it’s more important if people are still awake and clapping at the end—so thank you!
Dear brothers and sisters,
Welcome to all of you, media representatives from around the world. Thank you for the work you’ve done and are still doing. These days have been very special for the Church, and your role is important.
Jesus once said, “Blessed are the peacemakers.” That message is for all of us, but especially for you as communicators. You are called to speak in ways that bring peace—not with harsh or aggressive words, not just trying to get attention or win arguments. Instead, you should speak with love and seek the truth humbly. Peace starts with how we see, listen to, and talk about others. That’s why the way we communicate really matters. We must say no to a “war of words” and reject hostile or harmful language.
I want to clearly say that the Church supports journalists who are in prison for telling the truth. I ask for their release. These journalists are brave. Some even risk their lives reporting from war zones. They help protect dignity, justice, and our right to know the truth—because we need the truth to make free choices. Their suffering should make us all think. It reminds the world how important it is to protect freedom of speech and the press.
Thank you, friends, for reporting honestly about the Church. You’ve shared our faith, diversity, and unity with the world. You were here for Holy Week and when Pope Francis passed away. You shared the sadness, but also the hope that comes from Easter. You covered the Conclave too—long, tiring days—and still managed to show how Christ’s love brings people together.
These are challenging times—for everyone. But we must not give up. The Church has to face these challenges, and so do journalists. As Saint Augustine said, “Let us live well, and the times will be good. We are the times.”
Thank you for trying to go beyond stereotypes and for showing what the Church is really about. You’ve helped the world see us more clearly through all kinds of media.
Today, we must work to improve how we communicate. Sometimes our words are filled with confusion, anger, or political bias. But your role is key. Good communication doesn’t just share news—it helps build a culture. It creates both physical and digital spaces where people can talk and connect.
With technology growing fast—especially artificial intelligence—we must use it wisely and for the good of all. This is a responsibility we all share.
We’ve shared some special days together. You’ve told these stories on TV, radio, online, and through social media. I hope these days helped you feel something deeper about being human—and made you want to share more love and peace in the world.
So I repeat what Pope Francis said:
Let’s remove hate and prejudice from our communication. Let’s avoid aggression. We don’t need loud or angry voices, but voices that listen and speak for those who have none. When we use peaceful words, we help make the world more peaceful.
You report on war, peace, injustice, poverty, and the quiet efforts of people working for good. So I ask you: choose communication that builds peace—bravely and with purpose.
Thank you all. May God bless you!
Source: Vatican News
