Pope Francis Emphasizes Ethical Use of Technology in April Prayer Intention
Pontiff calls for technology to foster human connection and aid the marginalized
In a video message released on April 1, 2025, Pope Francis highlighted his prayer intention for the month, focusing on the ethical use of new technologies. He expressed concern over the increasing screen time that detracts from face-to-face interactions, stating, "How I would like for us to look less at screens and look each other in the eyes more." The Pope underscored that while technology is a gift of human intelligence, it must be utilized responsibly to benefit all, especially the poor and marginalized. He urged the faithful to "use technology to unite, not to divide," advocating for its application in improving the lives of the sick and protecting the environment. Concluding his message, Pope Francis prayed that new technologies "will not replace human relationships, will respect the dignity of the person, and will help us face the crises of our times."
This call aligns with the broader theme of the 2025 Jubilee, "Pilgrims of Hope," which began on December 24, 2024. The Jubilee aims to inspire the faithful to embody hope and solidarity in addressing contemporary challenges.
In related news, Vice President JD Vance intends to visit Rome during Easter weekend. While the trip has not been finalized, reports suggest plans for his arrival on Good Friday and departure on Easter Sunday. It remains unclear whether the visit will include meetings with Vatican officials or participation in Jubilee events.
Additionally, Archbishop Luis Argüello, president of the Spanish Bishops' Conference, addressed Spain's growing secularization during the conference's 127th plenary assembly. He noted that the era when being born in Spain inherently meant being Catholic has passed, emphasizing the need for renewed evangelization efforts in the country.
These developments reflect the Catholic Church's ongoing efforts to engage with modern societal issues, promoting ethical considerations in technology, addressing secularization, and fostering international dialogue.
How Pope Francis' Message on Technology Affects Us as Catholics
Pope Francis’ April intention about the ethical use of technology isn’t just a general comment—it’s a direct challenge to us as Catholics to live more intentionally in a digital world. Here's how it impacts us:
1. It Calls Us to Examine How We Use Technology
We are constantly surrounded by screens—phones, computers, TVs. The Pope’s message reminds us to ask:
Is my phone helping or hurting my relationships?
Am I using social media to spread love or division?
Am I too distracted to notice those around me who need attention, kindness, or prayer?
As Catholics, we’re called to be present, and this message invites us to be more aware of how digital habits might be pulling us away from that.
2. It Challenges Us to Use Technology for Good
Technology is neutral—it’s how we use it that makes a difference. The Pope is encouraging us to:
Help the sick through medical and communication technology
Spread the Gospel more effectively online
Protect the environment with innovations that care for creation
This is a challenge to be proactive Catholics in the digital space—not just scrolling, but creating and contributing to the Kingdom.
3. It Reminds Us of the Importance of Human Connection
When Pope Francis says, “I would like for us to look less at screens and more into each other’s eyes,” he’s tapping into a deep Christian truth: We were made for communion. Real presence. Real love. Real community.
So in our homes, churches, and even workplaces, we can ask:
Are we looking each other in the eyes?
Are we listening with our hearts?
Are we putting down devices to be truly present with others?
4. It Urges Us to Keep Our Faith at the Center
As the Church enters Jubilee 2025 under the theme “Pilgrims of Hope,” this message ties directly into how we’re called to live as people of hope in a noisy, distracted world.
Let’s not let screens replace our spiritual practices:
Daily prayer
Attending Mass
Spending quiet time with Scripture
Having meaningful conversations with family and friends
Final Thought:
This isn’t a call to throw away your phone—it’s a call to reclaim it as a tool for mission. Let’s be Catholics who use technology with purpose, compassion, and holiness.