World Communications Day: Pope urges to build network of human communities

"Christians must do more to make sure the media, especially social networks, are places of dialogue and respect for others, rather than instruments for highlighting differences and increasing divisions", says Pope Francis in his message for World Communications Day. The message entitled "We are members of one another (Eph 4:25): From social network communities to the human community". Pope Francis emphasizes the importance of the word community: "A community is that much stronger if it is cohesive and supportive, if it is animated by feelings of trust, and pursues common objectives. The community as a network of solidarity requires mutual listening and dialogue, based on the responsible use of language." The World Communication Day is celebrated on the Sunday before Pentecost; in 2019 that will be June 2. Pope Francis wants people to use social media as a network, not a web, "not something that traps you, but something that frees you and that you make an instrument of freedom.