Pope Leo XIV highlights the critical role of journalists in advocating for peace amidst global conflicts in his first meeting with the press.
**Pope Leo XIV Urges Journalists to Promote Peace During First Media Address**
**Pope Leo XIV Urges Journalists to Promote Peace During First Media Address**
In his inaugural address to the media, Pope Leo XIV calls for a peaceful discourse, emphasizing the importance of truth and justice.
In a momentous gathering at the Vatican on May 12, 2025, Pope Leo XIV held his first meeting with journalists, passionately urging them to choose the path of communication aligned with peace. Reflecting on the essential role of the media in illuminating global conflicts and voices advocating for justice, the Pope stated, “You are at the forefront of reporting on conflicts and aspirations for peace, on situations of injustice and poverty, and on the silent work of so many people striving to create a better world.” Expressing solidarity with imprisoned journalists, he called for resilience and courage in their mission during these tumultuous times.
The audience marked a significant tradition where new popes address the press shortly after their election. Leo XIV, who expressed gratitude in English before continuing in Italian, reiterated the need to foster peace, particularly in light of ongoing crises in Ukraine and Gaza. “Never again war,” he professed, appealing for an “authentic, just, and lasting peace.” After the address, the journalists applauded as Leo emphasized that informed individuals can make free choices, crucial for the democratic process.
As echoes of his calls for peace reverberate, the new pontiff has also expressed intentions to extend his focus to modern challenges like artificial intelligence, recognizing its profound implications on society. Acknowledging his predecessor Pope Francis, Leo XIV paid tribute to his ongoing legacy while positioning his leadership towards inclusivity and understanding within the church and beyond.
Leo XIV’s first foray into engaging with the media allowed him to address not only the journalists present but also the billions of Catholics worldwide. With a historical context present in the speeches of past popes, Leo XIV sought to emphasize that the media plays an essential role in constructing narratives beneficial to peace, urging them to say "no" to the war of words.
As he concluded with a blessing in Latin, the world looked forward to witnessing how Leo XIV would navigate the complexities of leading the global Catholic Church amid pressing environmental and social issues. His commitment to uplifting ordinary people continues to resonate profoundly, urging followers and journalists alike to collectively seek a path towards sustainable peace and justice.
The audience marked a significant tradition where new popes address the press shortly after their election. Leo XIV, who expressed gratitude in English before continuing in Italian, reiterated the need to foster peace, particularly in light of ongoing crises in Ukraine and Gaza. “Never again war,” he professed, appealing for an “authentic, just, and lasting peace.” After the address, the journalists applauded as Leo emphasized that informed individuals can make free choices, crucial for the democratic process.
As echoes of his calls for peace reverberate, the new pontiff has also expressed intentions to extend his focus to modern challenges like artificial intelligence, recognizing its profound implications on society. Acknowledging his predecessor Pope Francis, Leo XIV paid tribute to his ongoing legacy while positioning his leadership towards inclusivity and understanding within the church and beyond.
Leo XIV’s first foray into engaging with the media allowed him to address not only the journalists present but also the billions of Catholics worldwide. With a historical context present in the speeches of past popes, Leo XIV sought to emphasize that the media plays an essential role in constructing narratives beneficial to peace, urging them to say "no" to the war of words.
As he concluded with a blessing in Latin, the world looked forward to witnessing how Leo XIV would navigate the complexities of leading the global Catholic Church amid pressing environmental and social issues. His commitment to uplifting ordinary people continues to resonate profoundly, urging followers and journalists alike to collectively seek a path towards sustainable peace and justice.
