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Pope Francis has published his message for the 59th World Day of Social Communications, on the theme “Share with Gentleness the Hope that is in Your Hearts.” In a world marked by misinformation and polarization, he emphasizes the importance of the work of journalists and communicators, who are called to place personal and collective responsibility at the heart of communication. The Pope invites everyone to be “communicators of hope” by renewing their mission in the spirit of the Gospel.

Francis warns against communication that generates fear and despair, simplifies reality to provoke instinctive reactions, and uses false information to manipulate public opinion. He calls for the purification of communication by eliminating all aggressiveness and promoting constructive dialogue. The Pope also denounces the “programmed dispersion of attention” by digital systems, which fragment interests and weaken social cohesion.

He reminds us that Christian hope has a face—the face of the risen Christ—and urges Christians to bear witness to this hope through their way of living and loving. Christian communication must be carried out “with gentleness and respect,” following the example of Jesus of Nazareth, who accompanied the disciples of Emmaus with kindness. The Pope dreams of communication capable of encouraging hope, inspiring empathy, and fostering solidarity.

Hope is a communal project that invites everyone to start again together, to open paths of dialogue, and to care for the most vulnerable. The Jubilee is an opportunity to recall the mission of building peace and promoting attentive and compassionate communication.

The Holy Father encourages people to take care of their hearts and inner lives in order to be authentic witnesses and promoters of non-aggressive communication. He urges telling stories filled with hope and working together for a better future. Communicating in this way allows us to become “pilgrims of hope,” in accordance with the motto of the Jubilee.

Francis concludes by calling for the promotion of a culture of care, the building of bridges, and the breaking down of barriers, while bearing witness to a tenacious and patient hope. He blesses all communicators and their work, inviting them to spread hope throughout the world.

Rev. Fr. George Nwachukwu
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