Pope Leo advocates for a ceasefire in the divisive verbal conflict, urging unity among media figures in a public address.
Rewritten Article:
Pope Leo pleads for an end to divisive "word wars" while addressing a mob of media professionals in Vatican City.
In a captivating speech to thousands of media personnel, he asserted that our current climate is complex and perplexing, posing a challenge for all of us, but one we should not avoid. The new pontiff boldly echoed an invitation initially made by his predecessor, Pope Francis, saying, "Let's rid communication of prejudices, resentment, fanaticism, and hatred."
"Let's disarm it," he further emphasized.
Pope Leo firmly believes that disarmed and engaging communication enables us to perceive the world differently and behave in a manner consistent with human dignity.
Breaking the ice with a few English words at the outset, the pope thanked journalists for their coverage of his election and his conclave, making history as the first US pope. Encouraging peace, he urged, "Let's use words of peace, refuse the war of words and images, and shun the war paradigm."
A Glimpse into the Audience with Pope Leo
Sky's producer in Vatican City, Simone Baglivo, reported on the atmosphere during Pope Leo's inaugural audience with journalists. Baglivo maintained that the gathering was significant, with the pontiff focusing on the importance of press freedom globally. When he requested the release of imprisoned journalists, the crowd erupted into applause.
The pope recognized the arduous work the media had carried out and expressed his appreciation. Addressing the media, he fondly referred to them as "dear friends." He bestowed a blessing in Latin and personally greeted several attendees. While shaking hands, he admitted he was still learning his new role and didn't plan on visiting the US anytime soon. Instead, he mentioned preparations for a trip to Nicaea in Turkey, as Pope Francis had wished for. Amidst the intense week, the pope seemed composed and laid-back, even cracking a few jokes.
Meet Pope Leo XIV:
Pope Leo made history last Thursday as he was elected, serving as the first US pope, following a two-day conclave. Keep updated on his journey with these articles: "Who is Pope Leo XIV?" and "Pope prays at tomb of predecessor."
During his audience on Monday, the Pope, who once spent extensive years in Peru as a missionary, expressed empathy for jailed journalists and upheld the "precious gift of free speech and the press." His words met with enthusiastic approval from the crowd, who applauded his stand.
Commenting on those who risk their lives to report on conflicts, the Pope commended their bravery and sang the praises of those who safeguard dignity, justice, and people's right to be informed. "Only informed individuals can make free decisions," he affirmed.
The pope also touched upon artificial intelligence, urging caution and prudence in its adoption.
Recent developments include his Sunday address, where he appealed to the masses in St Peter's Square for "an end to war."
Pope Leo, while addressing a gathering of journalists, requested the cessation of conflicts, both verbal and real, stating, "Let's use words of peace, refuse the war of words and images, and shun the war paradigm." Furthermore, in his Sunday address, he appealed for the peaceful resolution of conflicts, and also expressed concerns regarding the adoption of artificial intelligence, saying, "Let's approach artificial intelligence with caution and prudence."
