Pope Leo XIV champions press freedom with humour at Vatican meeting
Pope Leo XIV joked and applauded journalists during an audience with media representatives on Monday in the Paul VI Audience Hall at the Vatican. Leo XIV emphasized the importance of this profession and expressed solidarity with imprisoned journalists.
What do you need to know?
- Pope Leo XIV met with journalists at the Vatican.
- The Holy Father highlighted the media's responsibility, stressing that they care for peace and truth. He pointed out the significance of press freedom, speaking of the courage of journalists who risk their lives to report on war and other important issues.
- He also displayed his sense of humour and lightness, allowing himself to make a joke.
During Monday's audience at the Vatican for representatives of global media, Pope Leo XIV expressed solidarity with imprisoned journalists and called for their release. He addressed the media representatives, indicating they should continue to uncover the truth.
Before these words were spoken, the pope thanked them for the warm welcome and even allowed himself a humorous comment.
The Pope jokes. A humorous moment during the meeting with journalists
"Thank you for the warm welcome," Leo XIV said to the journalists, who gave him a standing ovation.
He then joked about the situation.
"They say when they clap at the beginning of your speech, it doesn’t mean much. If you're still awake at the end and you still want to applaud..." said the evidently amused pope.
These words were accompanied by laughter in the room and another round of applause.
"Thank you very much," added Leo XIV.
What challenges do journalists face?
During the audience at the Vatican, Pope Leo XIV highlighted the difficulties journalists face worldwide. He emphasized that their work is invaluable at times when access to true information is crucial for the free elections of nations.
The pope expressed solidarity with reporters who suffer persecution for their activities.
Leo XIV stressed that press freedom is essential for the functioning of democratic societies. He highlighted the courage of journalists who report on armed conflicts, often risking their lives. The pope appealed to the international community to recognize the value of freedom of speech and the press.
Thanking the media representatives for their work, the pope pointed out that journalists not only inform but also shape the culture of dialogue and confrontation.
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