In his prayer intention for the month of April, Pope Francis urges the faithful to reflect on the use of new technologies, emphasising their potential to either foster or hinder human connection. The Holy Father calls on the global community to ensure that advancements in technology do not replace human relationships, respect human dignity, and contribute to addressing the crises of the present age.
In a world increasingly shaped by social media trends and artificial intelligence, Pope Francis acknowledges that “technology is the fruit of the intelligence God gave us.” While he recognises the power of innovation, he warns against its potential to cause harm if misused. Technology, he suggests, must be wielded carefully, as failure to do so can exacerbate issues such as isolation and disconnection.
“There’s something wrong if we spend more time on our cell phones than with people,” the Pope reflects, pointing to a disturbing trend of growing social media engagement at the expense of real-world interactions. He stresses that the rise of screens in daily life is making us forget that “there are real people behind it who breathe, laugh, and cry,” which can lead to negative consequences like cyberbullying and the spread of hatred.
The Pope also cautions against a growing digital divide, emphasising that technology should not only benefit the privileged few. He warns that unequal access to technology could lead to greater economic, social, labour, and educational disparities, perpetuating division and inequality. Technology, Pope Francis argues, should serve the common good and promote inclusion rather than deepen existing divides.
To counter these dangers, the Pope advocates for placing technology “at the service of the human person.” He envisions a world where technology is used to unite people, support those in need, enhance the lives of the sick, and protect the planet. For the Pope, the goal is not to allow technology to replace genuine human connections but to use it as a tool for good that fosters a culture of encounter and solidarity.
As part of his call for reflection, Pope Francis urges everyone to “look less at screens” and “look each other in the eyes more,” reminding us that true fulfillment comes from real relationships, not virtual ones. By finding a balance between technology and human connection, the Pope believes we can rediscover what truly matters: that we are all brothers and sisters, children of the same Father.
In his prayer intention for April, Pope Francis invites all to join him in praying that the use of new technologies respects the dignity of the person, strengthens human relationships, and helps humanity navigate the challenges of our times.
Source: Vatican News
