- 14 July, 2025
July 14, 2025: In today’s digital world, it has become increasingly difficult to separate truth from falsehood. Have you ever scrolled past a video of the Pope saying something odd, and wondered—“Did he really say that?” Recently, a surge of fake videos falsely portraying Pope Leo XIV has been circulating online, misleading viewers and distorting the Pope’s message. These videos, often designed to look convincing, are spreading rapidly and drawing in unsuspecting Catholics. As people of faith, we must remain alert, informed, and responsible in what we watch and share. Recognizing the signs of a fake video is not only helpful—it’s necessary.
1. Verify the source of the video
The first and most important step is to check who uploaded the video. Pope Leo XIV does not have an official personal YouTube channel. Any account bearing names like “Pope Leo I 14th” is not affiliated with him. Authentic papal content is typically released through well-established Catholic media such as Vatican News, EWTN, or other recognized Church-based sources. If the video appears on an unfamiliar or unofficial account, its credibility should be questioned.
2. Examine the visuals and presentation
Fake videos often follow a predictable format: a still photograph of Pope Leo XIV, floating subtitles of what he is supposedly saying, and a voiceover that attempts to mimic his tone. These clips usually lack any real footage or natural setting. In contrast, genuine videos of the Pope usually depict him speaking publicly—either on the Vatican balcony, during liturgical events, or in other official Church gatherings. Videos that rely solely on static images or digitally generated voices are likely inauthentic.
3. Evaluate the message and content
Another clear indicator is the nature of the message. Pope Leo XIV’s public addresses are known for their spiritual depth, moral clarity, and focus on Church teaching. He does not make videos about topics like “five things women shouldn’t wear to Mass” or “where to place blessed salt to ward off demons.” These are sensational, clickbait-style subjects aimed at attracting views—not conveying truth. Furthermore, any video in which the Pope is heard saying things like “click like and subscribe” should immediately raise doubts. The Holy Father is not a content creator, nor does he seek social media engagement.
The rise of such fake content is not just a technical problem—it also affects the spiritual life of the Church. When false information is shared in the name of Church authority, it can confuse believers and harm the respect due to the Pope. This situation should be met with both care and kindness. It is important to pray for those who create and share these videos, asking that they may come to know the truth and act with honesty. Instead of ignoring such content, trusted information should be shared with others to help people understand what is real. By standing for the truth, the Church helps protect both the Pope’s message and the unity of its people.
Source: Sips with Serra Youtube Channel
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