Pope Francis, the first pontiff from the Americas, had supported the responsible and ethical use of digital media, noting that it could be used to promote dialogue and connect people.
He recognized the importance of modern platforms and harnessed them to evangelize the Gospel.
But he cautioned that the digital media could be exploited to spread disinformation that could lead to division among people, putting human relationships at risk.
Known as the first “social media pope,” Francis used Twitter to engage with audiences from across the globe and to communicate his message. He was the most influential world leader on this platform. He also used Instagram and YouTube to engage with the people and spread the Gospel.
Pope Benedict XVI launched @pontifex, the papal Twitter account, on December 12, 2012. The account made its first tweet on December 12.
In his last post on X (formerly Twitter), Pope Francis said, “Christ is risen! These words capture the entire meaning of our existence, for we were not made for death but for life.”
Francis also encouraged the young to use social media in evangelization, as he saw its ability to reach a broader audience.
He was the first Roman Catholic leader to deliver a TED Talk in 2017.
In his TED talk, he mentioned interdependence, saying, “None of us is an island, an autonomous and independent ‘I,’ separated from the other. We can only build the future by standing together, including everyone.”
Pope Francis also mentioned inclusion, citing the Good Samaritan as the story of today’s humanity. He invited everyone to help each other.
In his TED talk, he also reminded everyone of hope, saying, “Through the darkness of today’s conflicts, every one of us can become a bright candle, a reminder that light will overcome darkness, and never the other way around.”
He also touched on tenderness, describing it as “the love that comes close and becomes real.” He also encouraged people and institutions that wield power to show love and create change.
“The more powerful you are, the more your actions will have an impact on people; the more responsible you are to act humbly,” he said" “If you don’t, your power will ruin you, and you will ruin the other.”
Francis used platforms to inspire hope, call for peace, call for an end to conflicts, and call for solidarity.
But he also cautioned people not to become excessively dependent on social media and overlook personal life, family, and other people. He valued face-to-face and human connections.
Francis was the first pope from the Society of Jesus. He began his papacy on March 13, 2013.
He was born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, on December 17, 1936.
