In the digital age, it’s easy to become absorbed in our screens, whether for work, socializing, or entertainment. However, Pope Francis is urging Catholics to reflect on the role technology plays in our lives and to use it in ways that enhance, not hinder, human relationships. For the month of April, the Holy Father’s prayer intention focuses on the responsible use of new technologies, encouraging believers to connect with each other more deeply and authentically.
In a video released on April 1, Pope Francis shared his concerns about the overuse of digital devices, stating, “How I would like for us to look less at screens and look each other in the eyes more.” He lamented that people often spend more time interacting with their phones than with one another, a habit that he believes can lead to the loss of meaningful personal connections. As Pope Francis explained, “Something’s wrong if we spend more time on our cellphones than with people. The screen makes us forget that there are real people behind it who breathe, laugh, and cry.”
Despite these concerns, the Pope acknowledged that technology itself is not inherently bad. He reminded us that “technology is the fruit of the intelligence God gave us.” In other words, technology is a gift that, when used properly, can serve the common good. However, Pope Francis warned against allowing it to benefit only a select few, while excluding others. “It can’t benefit only a few while excluding others,” he said, emphasizing that technology must be used with justice and equity in mind.
Pope Francis’ message was not just a cautionary tale about the overuse of technology. He also offered a vision for how digital tools can be used to build up society, especially for the most vulnerable. “Use technology to unite, not to divide. To help the poor. To improve the lives of the sick and persons with different abilities,” he urged. He further highlighted the importance of using technology to care for “our common home,” a reference to Pope Francis’ broader environmental concerns and the care for creation that lies at the heart of Catholic social teaching. The Pope’s message calls for technology to be a force for good in society—one that can bring people together and serve the common good, rather than causing division.
The Pope also reminded us of the profound value of direct human interaction. “It’s when we look at each other in the eyes that we discover what really matters: that we are brothers, sisters, children of the same Father,” he said. This emphasis on personal connection is a reminder that, while technology can be a useful tool, it should never replace the richness of human relationships.
In his conclusion, Pope Francis offered a prayer for the faithful, asking that technology be used in ways that respect the dignity of every person and foster meaningful relationships. “Let us pray that the use of the new technologies will not replace human relationships, will respect the dignity of the person, and will help us face the crises of our times,” he said. This prayer invites Catholics to reflect on their own use of technology and to consider how it can be harnessed for good.
Pope Francis’ prayer video is part of the Pope’s Worldwide Prayer Network, which promotes his monthly prayer intentions to Catholics around the world. As we move further into the digital era, it’s essential that we heed the Holy Father’s call to use technology responsibly, with an eye toward unity, compassion, and human dignity.
