Pope Francis warns of brotherhood's decline in algorithmic age
Pope Francis, in his reflections on the Way of the Cross at the Colosseum, emphasised that brotherhood in the world is under threat. We have built a world of "calculation and algorithms, cold logic and implacable interests," he noted. The Pope calls for contemplation and change to restore joy and peace.
What do you need to know?
- Pope Francis, in his reflections on the Way of the Cross at the Colosseum, highlighted the erosion of brotherhood worldwide. He emphasised that the world is seeking a new order.
- The Pope's reflections, while he recovers from pneumonia, were published by the Vatican on Friday. The Way of the Cross is led by Cardinal Baldassare Reina.
- Francis urges contemplation of our daily choices and stresses that "selfishness burdens us more than the cross."
What are the main messages of Pope Francis?
In his reflections on the Way of the Cross at the Colosseum, Pope Francis portrayed a world where brotherhood is being compromised. "We have built a world that works like that: a world of calculation and algorithms, of cold logic and implacable interests," he observed. The Pope highlighted that the world is yearning for a new order and that the Way of the Cross intersects our daily lives, guiding us from weariness to joy.
Francis remarked that in a world where everything is calculated, selflessness has become costly. He cautioned against judgmental attitudes that harm others and urged for more open-heartedness. "When I see someone I have already judged, open my heart, Jesus," prayed the Pope.
Why does the Pope call for reflection and conversion?
Pope Francis emphasised that people often dodge responsibility, and selfishness and indifference are more burdensome than the Cross. "Today’s builders of Babel tell us that there is no room for losers, and that those who fall along the way are losers," he wrote, referencing the construction of hell. He contrasted this with God's approach, which is humble and loyal to the earth.
Francis urged reflection on our everyday decisions and emphasised that "the whole world yearns for a new beginning." Jesus stands with those who have not come to terms with the inevitability of injustice. "You break the bonds of the inevitable, Jesus," the Pope affirmed.
