In his first public address, Pope Leo XIV, addressing a packed St. Peter’s Square, echoed a strong plea for peace, reflecting the values of his predecessor, Pope Francis. His initial audience included over 1,000 journalists, emphasizing the Church’s support for their pursuit of truth and advocating for the release of imprisoned journalists worldwide. The Pope condemned the “war of words” marked by prejudice and ideological attacks, advocating instead for communication centered on listening and giving voice to the marginalized. He stated, “Let us disarm words, and we will help to disarm the world.”
Pope Leo XIV also stressed the responsibility of the media in using artificial intelligence wisely. According to the Committee to Protect Journalists, 361 journalists remain imprisoned globally, with China, Israel, Myanmar, Belarus, and Russia identified as the leading offenders. The Pope specifically noted Israel’s recent efforts to suppress coverage from Gaza amid ongoing conflict, highlighting the dangers faced by journalists in these regions.
Earlier, on his first Sunday, Pope Leo XIV called for an end to war, urging for a “just and lasting peace” in Ukraine and an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. His remarks were met with cheers from the crowd, signaling widespread support for his message. The Pope’s address to journalists was brief, taking place in the Vatican’s Paul VI Assembly Hall, where he concluded by greeting officials, even taking a moment to sign a baseball for a fan. This focus on communication, empathy, and peace underlines his vision for his papacy, setting a tone for his leadership.
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