Pope Leo XIV recently held his first audience with the media in Vatican City, where he called for an end to the divisive "war of words" that has characterized recent discourse. Speaking to a crowd of thousands, the 69-year-old pontiff emphasized the challenges of our times and urged everyone not to shy away from them.
In his address, Pope Leo echoed a message from his predecessor, Pope Francis, urging people to communicate without prejudice, resentment, or hatred. He said, "Let us disarm communication of all prejudice and resentment, fanaticism and even hatred," highlighting the need for peaceful dialogue. He added that a more compassionate way of communicating allows for a better understanding of the world and respects human dignity.
The new pope, who is the first from the United States, opened the meeting with a few words in English before switching to Italian. He expressed gratitude to journalists for their coverage of his election, which took place after a two-day conclave. His call for peace and the release of imprisoned journalists resonated strongly, prompting applause from those in attendance.
Pope Leo stressed that peace starts with individuals and is reflected in how we perceive and speak about others. He urged the media to reject aggressive narratives, stating, "We must say ‘no’ to the war of words and images." He emphasized that the way we communicate is crucial, as it shapes our interactions and understanding of one another.
During the event, he also expressed solidarity with journalists risking their lives to report the truth, praising their courage in defending dignity and justice. He remarked on the importance of free speech and the press, stating that the plight of imprisoned journalists challenges the conscience of nations.
As he looks ahead, Pope Leo mentioned his plans to visit Nicaea in Turkey, a trip that aligns with his predecessor’s intentions. While he is still settling into his role, he appeared calm and engaged, even sharing a few light-hearted moments with the audience.
In addition to addressing communication, the pope touched on the topic of artificial intelligence, calling for its responsible use. He also reiterated his commitment to advocating for peace in ongoing conflicts, specifically mentioning the need for a ceasefire in Gaza and lasting peace in Ukraine.
Pope Leo XIV’s first address to the media marks a significant moment in his papacy, as he seeks to foster a culture of dialogue, understanding, and peace in a world often fraught with division.