Pope writes to young people in Romania: Be bearers of hope, use social media wisely

Vatican News

In an open letter addressed to the young people of the Diocese of Iasi, Romania, Pope Francis writes: "Be bearers of hope and builders of bridges, using every tool at your disposal to sow goodness and love in the world."

The Pope‘s words came in response to a letter delivered to him in mid-May by the Cardinal Secretary of State, Pietro Parolin, who participated in the diocesan youth meeting in Iasi on May 18-19.

Use social media wisely

In his letter published by the Roman Catholic Diocese of Iasi, the Holy Father also encourages the youth to use social networks "with courage and creativity, conveying values that build up: friendship, peace, dialogue between ethnicities and cultures, family, and Christian values."

He warns them against becoming slaves to their smartphones and ending up trapped in virtual life at the expense of real life: "Go out into the world, meet people, listen to their stories, look into the eyes of your brothers and sisters. True wealth lies in the human relationships lived daily, in direct and sincere contact."

National Youth Meeting

Finally, the Pope invites the young Catholics to participate in the national youth meeting, which will be held in September in the Brasov district.

"It will be a valuable opportunity to grow together in faith, to share experiences, and to strengthen your Christian journey," he writes, before concluding with a request to pray for him: "Your spiritual support is an invaluable gift that helps me serve the Church and humanity."