Pope calls on youth to use social media and artificial intelligence with moderation and discipline

The Pope called on young people to approach the use of social media and artificial intelligence with moderation and discipline. In his video message to the participants of the large four-day celebration in the Brazilian city of Fortaleza, he warned that modern technologies can lead people into an "unreal world," where fleeting and illusory things displace true values.

The Example of Carlo Acutis

As a guide in the digital era, the Pope pointed to Saint Carlo Acutis. According to him, Acutis showed how it is possible to always keep Christ at the center of life, even while actively using technology. The message is aimed at preserving a sense of humanity and reality, so as not to lose the connection with what is truly significant.

Missionary Energy and Building Peace

In his message to the hundreds of thousands of young people gathered in Brazil, the Pontiff emphasized that youth possess an "irreplaceable missionary energy" that must be directed toward transforming the world and building peace. He encouraged participants not to lose their "missionary flame" and to strive for the creation of a "city of peace," or as Saint Augustine called it – "the City of God," present amidst the city of men.

The Pope quoted Benedict XVI ("Do not be afraid of Christ!") and called for the bold proclamation that "a life without Christ is a life without grace." He mentioned his message also to the young people in Portugal, who gathered for the national World Youth Day in Lamego.

In conclusion, the Pope emphasized that in moments of fatigue and loss of inner spark, the only way to maintain the flame of faith and to witness to the Resurrection to friends and to those we meet is through prayer and the constant presence of God.