Social media need to promote more logic, kindness and Christian witness than bluster, star-status and division, Pope Benedict XVI said in his message for World Communications Day, to be observed on May 12. The statement was released on Jan. 24, the feast of St. Francis de Sales, patron of journalists. Given that the digital world exposes people to a wider range of opinions and beliefs, people need to accept the existence of other cultures, be enriched by them and offer others what “they possess that is good, true and beautiful,” the pope said. Christians are called to bring truth and values to the whole world—online and off—remembering that it is ultimately the power of God’s word that touches hearts, not sheer human effort, he said. Social media “need the commitment of all who are conscious of the value of dialogue, reasoned debate and logical argumentation.” Social forums need to be used wisely and well, which means fostering balanced and respectful dialogue and debate, he said, and paying special attention to “privacy, responsibility and truthfulness.”
Pope: 'Use Media Well'
Show Comments (
)
Comments are automatically closed two weeks after an article's initial publication. See our comments policy for more.
The latest from america
While we are going to continue to advocate for the dignity of the unborn, let’s admit Kamala Harris has Catholic cred on other important issues.
“The Remarkable Life of Ibelin” presents the internet as a place where true connection is possible and limitations can be transcended.
A Homily for the Solemnity of All Souls, by Father Terrance Klein
Cardinal McElroy shared his reflections on the synod with America Vatican correspondent Gerard O'Connell in this wide-ranging interview at the North American College in Rome.