Pope Leo XIV Urges Media Professionals to 'Disarm Communication' in Appeal for Truth and Peace

VATICAN CITY, May 12, 2025 — In a landmark address this morning to global media representatives gathered in the Vatican, Pope Leo XIV warned against the dangers of ‘modern-day Babel’ and called for a renewed commitment to responsible, peaceful, and truthful communication. Speaking at a special audience in the Apostolic Palace, the Pontiff underscored the crucial role journalists play in shaping public discourse and safeguarding human dignity in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.

The Pope’s speech, delivered less than a week after the conclusion of the papal conclave, marked his first formal engagement with the press since assuming the papacy. In a tone both pastoral and urgent, Pope Leo XIV thanked journalists for their work during Holy Week and the transitional period within the Church, praising their efforts to portray the unity and diversity of the Catholic community.

Quoting Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount, where he proclaims, "Blessed are the peacemakers" (Mt 5:9), Pope Leo XIV challenged media professionals to embrace a model of communication that resists sensationalism and ideological division. “Peace begins with each one of us,” he said, “in the way we look at others, listen to others, and speak about others.”

A central theme of Pope's address was the ethical use of artificial intelligence. While acknowledging AI’s vast potential, Pope Leo XIV emphasised the need for discernment and shared responsibility to ensure technology serves humanity and fosters inclusive dialogue rather than division. “This responsibility concerns everyone,” he stated, “in proportion to his or her age and role in society.”

Pope Leo XIV also issued a strong appeal for the release of imprisoned journalists, lauding them as defenders of truth and justice. “The suffering of these imprisoned journalists challenges the conscience of nations,” he said, calling on the international community to uphold press freedom as a pillar of democracy and human rights.

Referring to the biblical Tower of Babel, the Pope warned of the “confusion of loveless languages” that characterises much of contemporary discourse. He urged media professionals to avoid partisan rhetoric and instead foster a culture of dialogue, inclusion, and mutual understanding.

Concluding his address, the Pope echoed the words of his predecessor, Pope Francis, urging the press to “disarm communication of all prejudice and resentment”. He called on journalists to be instruments of peace, amplifying the voices of the weak and working tirelessly to “disarm words” as a means of disarming the world.

Pope Leo XIV’s address has already drawn global attention for its moral clarity and timely message. As the Catholic Church enters a new chapter, his appeal to the media signals a papacy deeply engaged with the ethical dimensions of communication in the 21st century.

By Catholic Connect Reporter