Pope Francis, in his message for the 59th World Day of Social Communications, urged journalists to promote unity by sharing stories of hope and goodness. He expressed a desire for communication that avoids spreading fear and instead provides reasons to be hopeful. The pope encouraged journalists to seek and highlight positive stories, likening their efforts to gold prospectors searching for precious nuggets.
The World Day of Social Communications is celebrated annually on January 24, coinciding with the feast of St. Francis de Sales, the patron saint of journalists. In 2025, this day will feature events in Rome as part of a Jubilee of Hope.
During these challenging times, Pope Francis emphasized the importance of hopeful storytelling. He described good communication as a way to help people connect with their better selves and each other. He encouraged journalists to remain aware of their inner lives and to foster humility in their work by remembering the people they serve and avoiding self-promotion.