Pope: Digital communication must serve truth and human dignity

By Vatican News

Pope Leo has called on Catholic communicators to promote digital tools and strategies inspired by the pursuit of truth and respect for human dignity.

His appeal came in a message addressed to participants in the SIGNIS World Conference, currently taking place in Kigali, Rwanda, and signed on his behalf by Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin.

The Pope sent his cordial greetings and assured those gathered of his spiritual closeness, expressing the hope that their discussions would give “new impetus” to efforts to ensure that communication platforms advance the common good of the entire human family.

Shaping culture and conscience

Reflecting on the realities of the digital age, the message notes that much of contemporary life is now driven by digital technology and the internet.

Quoting his Encyclical "Magnifica Humanitas", Pope Leo recalled that online communication is not simply a means of transmitting information. It also creates culture, shaping how people perceive the world and profoundly influencing the collective conscience.

Against this backdrop, the Holy Father encouraged participants to explore practical ways of advancing the conference theme, “Digital Communication for Cultural Harmony and Environmental Wellbeing.”

He expressed the hope that their reflections would lead to communication strategies and tools guided by truth and rooted in respect for the dignity of every person.

Communion, peace and care for creation

Such an approach, the message continued, can help build a culture reflecting the Gospel values of communion and peace, while also encouraging responsible stewardship of the environment.

Pope Leo entrusted all those attending the conference to the intercession of Mary, Mother of the Church, and assured them of his prayers that their work might bear lasting fruit.

Finally, he imparted his Apostolic Blessing as a pledge of “wisdom and strength in the Lord.”