In April, Pope Francis dedicates his prayer intention to new technologies, expressing his hope that their use “will not replace human relationships, will respect the dignity of the person, and will help us face the crises of our times.”
The Impact of Social Networks
In a digital world dominated by social media trends and the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence, Pope Francis reminds us that “technology is the fruit of the intelligence God gave us.” However, he also cautions against its misuse, warning of its potential negative consequences.
The Pope highlights the growing issue of social isolation and the weakening of authentic relationships. “Something’s wrong if we spend more time on our cell phones than with people,” he states. He warns that excessive screen time can make us forget that behind every digital interaction are real individuals who “breathe, laugh, and cry.” This detachment, he notes, has fueled the rise of cyberbullying and online hatred.
Additionally, Pope Francis stresses that technology should not be a privilege that benefits only a select few while excluding others. Such disparities, he warns, can deepen economic, social, labor, and educational inequalities.
Technology at the Service of Humanity
To address these challenges, the Pope urges society to “place technology at the service of the human person.” He envisions technology as a tool to unite people, support the vulnerable, improve healthcare, foster meaningful connections, and protect the planet.
Technology, he insists, should not detach humanity from reality and relationships. Instead, Pope Francis encourages everyone to “look less at screens” and “look each other in the eyes more.” Striking a balance between technology and real-life connections will help us rediscover what truly matters: recognizing each other as brothers, sisters, an
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