World Communications Day 2016
Pope calls for a closeness in our communications with others
The 50th World Communications Day is to be marked by Pope Francis this Sunday (May 8th). In a letter entitled ‘Communication and Mercy: A Fruitful Encounter’, Pope Francis makes reference to the ‘closeness’ of communication, showing mercy in our interactions with others and the importance of the human heart when communicating via digital networks.
The Pontiff calls on the sons and daughters of God to practise mercy through our words and gestures. He makes reference to how we are treated in our own home ‘where the door is always open and where everyone feels welcome.’ He encourages us to do likewise with the wider world and that by sharing warmth with others, our witness ‘ignites the spark which gives them life’.
While the way the world communicates has changed dramatically in recent times, Pope Francis believes that social networks and all forms of electronic communication can still be as fully human as conventional forms of communication.
“It is not technology which determines whether or not communication is authentic, but rather the human heart and our capacity to use wisely the means at our disposal.”
Pope Francis highlighted some of the darker sides of online communications by calling on society to avoid using these mediums to polarize or cause division and that we should be mindful that another human beings may be affected by our online actions.
“Access to digital networks entails a responsibility for our neighbour whom we do not see but who is nonetheless real and has a dignity which must be respected.”
The Pope also emphasised the importance of ‘closeness’ in communication. He referred to communications as means of sharing rather than simply hearing or being a passive onlooker.
“Listening also means being able to share questions and doubts, to journey side by side…”
The full text of Pope Francis’ letter is available here.
